You are warmly invited to join Philip Ruddock, together with family, friends and members of the wider community, for the launch of his new book, Nation Building: How Immigration Made Australia.

The launch will be held in a place of special significance to Philip. Parramatta is where his political career began and where much of his understanding of immigration, multiculturalism and Australia’s changing national story was first formed.

The event is proudly hosted by One Global Resorts Parramatta.

The Philip Ruddock Heritage Centre also stands directly opposite the location of Philip’s first electoral office. The Centre was officially opened in 2017 by former NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian, who will return as the special guest for the book launch.

Gladys will join Philip to reflect on the book, his more than half a century of public service, and the broader story of immigration and multicultural Australia.

The timing of the launch carries particular significance. The following day, 22 September, marks the 53rd anniversary of Philip’s election to the Australian Parliament as the Member for Parramatta in 1973.

About the book

Nation Building: How Immigration Made Australia is Philip Ruddock’s first-hand account of his life in politics and his time as Australia’s longest-serving Minister for Immigration.

The book traces the evolution of Australian immigration from the White Australia policy and postwar migration to the development of a modern, skills-focused migration program and a successful multicultural society.

At its heart is a clear argument: immigration did not simply change Australia - it helped build Australia.

The book examines how well-managed immigration made Australia younger, more skilled, more prosperous and more connected to the world. It also explains why multiculturalism has been essential to Australia’s success, giving people from different backgrounds a shared sense of belonging, responsibility and national purpose.

At a time when immigration and multiculturalism are again at the centre of public debate, Nation Building offers both a personal political history and a timely contribution to the national conversation.

By clicking HERE, you can secure your SPECIAL PRE-PUBLICATION OFFER:

Soft Cover $29.95 or Hard Cover $39.95.

Special guest

Gladys Berejiklian

Former Premier of New South Wales

Registration details

Free to attend, but registration is essential as places are limited.

Please register all family members and friends who will be attending. Please note this is not a catered event, a local cafe is available in the Centre.

Copies of Nation Building: How Immigration Made Australia will be available, and Philip will take part in a book signing following the formal proceedings.