AUS
NZ
UK
CA
USA
FRA
GER
ESP
ITA
NLD
PRT
SWE
GRC
IND
POL
BRA
ZAF
RUS
CHN
UAE
_02_05_2025_05_53_40_418159.jpg)
Highlights
The Samuel Griffith Society builds presence at Australian universities inspired by the US Federalist Society
ANU student leader resigns over invitation extended to former judge Dyson Heydon
Society reaffirms commitment to campus chapters despite internal protest
A conservative legal organisation is gaining traction within Australia’s higher education sector. The Samuel Griffith Society (SGS), which aligns its philosophy with the US-based Federalist Society, has been steadily establishing student chapters across major universities over the past year. The move signals a growing campus-level interest in constitutional law and public policy debate.
The broader public response to the society’s expansion intensified this week following backlash tied to a planned speaker appearance at an upcoming event. The announcement of the invitation to a former High Court judge prompted internal tensions, with criticism surfacing from within university chapters.
Resignation Sparks Debate Within ANU Chapter
The Australian National University’s chapter of SGS drew national attention after one of its student leaders, Angus Murray, publicly resigned. He cited opposition to the planned participation of former High Court justice Dyson Heydon, who has previously faced misconduct findings. His resignation was accompanied by statements on social platforms, where he called the invitation inappropriate.
Murray also confirmed that several ANU members had chosen to step away from the group. The concerns relate specifically to the timing and nature of the invitation, which is associated with the society’s annual conference scheduled for August.
Despite the fallout, the chapter is expected to remain active. Xavier Boffa, SGS executive director since 2020, stated that other members of the ANU leadership team would continue the group’s initiatives. The response reflects a broader trend of student organisations navigating public scrutiny while maintaining internal governance structures.
Broader Legal Discourse and Academic Forums
The Samuel Griffith Society’s activities highlight a resurgence of interest in constitutional and conservative legal thought on Australian campuses. With roots in judicial restraint and constitutional literalism, SGS aims to foster academic discussion across disciplines, engaging law students in structured forums and seminars.
The society’s presence is growing at a time when academic environments are increasingly intersecting with national legal and political debates. While not listed on the ASX 200, ASX 100, or ASX 50, its national profile positions it within the broader civic landscape influencing institutional engagement with legal education and thought leadership.
Balancing Engagement and Accountability
The decision to invite Dyson Heydon to speak has raised questions over accountability and the responsibilities of legal organisations in setting public standards. The society has not publicly reversed its decision, maintaining that it will proceed with its agenda as scheduled.
While the ANU chapter faced immediate membership shifts, other university chapters have not reported similar upheaval. Leadership within SGS maintains that the society’s broader mission to promote constitutional dialogue remains unchanged. It is expected that the conference will move forward with a revised list of speakers should further changes arise.
The Samuel Griffith Society continues to navigate its role in contemporary legal dialogue while facing increased scrutiny over its affiliations and event programming. The group’s actions underscore the evolving intersection of academia, law, and civic participation across the national stage.
