Vignette 61: The Don Dunstan Foundation

Known for his progressive views, Don Dunstan (1926–1999) AC QC studied law at the University, where he also pursued arts subjects and studied piano at the Elder Conservatorium of Music. A champion for Aboriginal rights, multiculturalism, and the arts, he remains a key figure who reshaped the identity of South Australia.

Dunstan entered South Australian politics in 1953, joining the Australian Labor Party and becoming Premier in 1967. The 1970s is often referred to as the Dunstan Decade, saw transformative reforms that made it a defining era for the state and established him as a key figure in Australian political history.

After leaving politics, Dunstan continued work on promoting social justice and human rights issues. The Don Dunstan Foundation was established jointly with Flinders University in 1999, to honour Dunstan’s vision and values. A hub for thought leadership, it brings together research, policymakers, and community groups to meet social needs in South Australia. 

Advocating for cultural diversity, equitable wealth distribution, human rights, and Indigenous rights, the Don Dunstan Foundation hosts annual events to foster dialogue on these critical social issues, continuing in the spirit of Don Dunstan himself.

The University of Adelaide: 150 Years of Making History.  Nurturing excellence. p.85