light on the hill

English

Etymology

Used by Ben Chifley and since adopted as a catchphrase by members of the ALP.

Noun

light on the hill

1. (Australia, figurative) Used to evoke the values of the Australian Labor Party.
   • 1949 June 12, Ben Chifley, speech, 2009, Pamela Robson (editor), The Light on the Hill, Great Australian Speeches, unnumbered page,

     We have a great objective—the light on the hill—which we aim to reach by working for the betterment of mankind not only here but anywhere we may give a helping hand.

   • 2002, Francis Gordon Clarke, The History of Australia, page 186:

     The traditional ethic of the fair go was resurrected, the light on the hill reignited, and the government promised that those currently unemployed would not be left to stagnate.

   • 2009, Stuart MacIntyre, A Concise History of Australia, Third edition, page 237:

     Tellinglly, when asked to give an example of how he understood equality, he replied ‘I want every kid to have a desk, with a lamp, and his own room to study.’ The light on the desk replaced the light on the hill.