Inquiry into Australia's Human Rights Framework

The St Vincent de Paul Society National Council of Australia’s submission outlines the need for a comprehensive Human Rights Act in Australia.

Highlighting the shortcomings of the previous Australian Human Rights Framework (2010) and National Human Rights Action Plan (2012), the submission advocates for a balanced approach that respects both individual rights and the core principles of organisations.

It urges a consultative process to develop a robust Commonwealth Human Rights Act that encompasses a wide array of rights, such as social, economic, and cultural rights, guaranteeing healthcare, education, and adequate social services. Housing, employment, and fairer access to economic and educational opportunities should be pivotal to this new framework.

The legislation requires a balance between the rights of organisations, their core ideologies, and individual objections. This will be particularly important for political, educational and/or religious-based institutions.

The Society advocates for the development of a comprehensive Commonwealth Human Rights Act as a critical step towards ensuring equality and fairness for all Australians.  

Read our submission (PDF file)