Assessment
Dixon has sometimes been described as a product of his times – for example, he was a strong supporter of the White Australia policy, and was a critic of most organized religions and, as Philip Ayers' biographical work shows, a virulent anti-Catholic. He had a strong involvement with several politicians of the day, notably Robert Menzies, and on occasion gave "advice" to federal ministers on foreign policy matters. Dixon and his predecessor Sir John Latham were utilized by successive Commonwealth Governments on diplomatic and other international missions. Dixon is remembered primarily for his attitude of "strict and complete legalism" in his approach to contentious issues, and is considered by some to be among the least politically influenced judges.
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