Public morality is the degree of conformity of an idea, practice etc. to the accepted standards of general conduct i.e. moral principles, points of ethics and the distinction between right and wrong moral conduct. Between 1788 and 1901 Christianity was the primary influence and the clergy were the main authoritarian figures who promoted and set the standards for the right moral conduct in the convict settlements. The Church ministers and members believed one of their major roles was to elevate the moral standards of the convict society and occupy the role of being "God's police." This view was supported by many Australians who wished to improve moral order through the state.

The major areas of influence included family law, sexual ethics, social service and in the preservation of the Sabbath. The Christian influence towards morality was evident from the time of the First Fleet. One such minister Reverend Johnson...