Nelson Mandela visit to Parliament House, 23 October 1990

After being released from prison in 1990, Nelson Mandela embarked on a world tour to thank those countries that campaigned for his freedom, and against apartheid. Australia was on this list, and on 23 October Mr Mandela was welcomed to Australia by Prime Minister Bob Hawke and Opposition leader John Hewson. Their remarks, as well as Mr Mandela's response, are now available to view online for the first time.