Statement - Religious Discrimination Bill

STATEMENT TO SOCIETY MEMBERS, COMPANIONS, VOLUNTEERS, EMPLOYEES & SUPPORTERS

Religious Discrimination Bill

19 January 2022

The National Council of the St Vincent de Paul Society in Australia has proposed that the Federal Parliament look to enact a comprehensive Federal Human Rights Act in the face of recent debate about the Religious Discrimination Bill 2021.

In reflecting on recent public commentary about the Society’s submission to the Parliament on the Bill, National President, Claire Victory issued this statement.

‘The Society is an organisation with deep religious roots and many of our members, volunteers, companions and employees will have questions about what we think, as well as the debate that is having an impact on many of our people.

There are potential unintended consequences associated with the Bill and subsequent debate which risk bringing harm to people who are already marginalised. I know from comments I have received there are many people who are feeling particularly vulnerable during the public debate on this Bill.

This runs counter to the Society’s commitment to inclusiveness and our respect for the inherent dignity of every person. We are committed to assist all who approach the Society for help. These beliefs are reflected in the work undertaken by our conference members in local communities.

As an organisation, we welcome and value every person irrespective of their religious beliefs, race, age, ability, gender identity or sexuality.

Our members, volunteers and employees work hard to build trust with people from all walks of life. Vincentians are called to bring hope.

We are committed to ensuring all our people feel safe, secure, included and able to participate fully in the organisation – without exception – especially people who are affected by the tone of some of the commentary surrounding this debate. We are concerned some people will lose hope during this public discourse.

The submission to the inquiries on the Bill confirmed there are some positions within the Society which must be filled by Catholics as proscribed in The Rule. We believe the existing laws enable the Society to ensure that people who are Catholic can be engaged in these positions. These positions and the Society’s values guide the Society by providing spiritual nourishment and an understanding of the deep needs of the people we assist.

Our work is grounded in inclusion, human dignity and respect. These values reflect the Gospel message and align strongly with Catholic Social Teaching, The Rule and international human rights conventions.

I am heartened by people from the broader community, and many of our members, volunteers and employees, who have expressed to us their gratitude for the Society's advocacy on behalf of those in our community who are marginalised.