The former prime minister has also declared that progressive values and fairness across the globe are under challenge and committed her post-political life to education.

In a speech in honour of her political mentor, Joan Kirner, Ms Gillard did not mention Tony Abbott by name, but appealed to community groups to lead the fight for a ‘‘socially just Australia and socially just world’’.

‘‘The fragility of some of what we have built and what we still must achieve, has become so evident over recent months,’’ she told a conference of not-for-profit community groups at Moonee Valley.

‘‘We have seen the recommendations of the Commission of Audit and the response of the government in the budget that was handed down earlier this month. Budgets are made up of choices. They make us – all of us, no matter what side of politics we are on – think about what we care most about, what we want valued in our society.’’

Declaring social justice under threat on multiple fronts, she said she wanted to see ‘‘an educated country, a compassionate country, and a country that holds social justice and fairness at the core of its identity’’.

She expressed sorrow that Ms Kirner was too ill to be present, saying the former premier had sent her a late-night text advising that she would be unable to attend.

‘‘Joan epitomises purpose in public life. This is why she is one of the greats among us.’’