New Human Rights Act Push in parliament welcomed
A coalition of 170 civil society organisations is urging the Albanese Government to support and implement an Australian Human Rights Act, following the introduction of a Human Rights Act private members Bill to the House of Representatives this morning.
The Human Rights Bill was introduced by Andrew Wilkie MP and seconded by Dr Helen Haines MP. This renewed push comes nearly two years after the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Human Rights definitively recommended the enactment of an Australian Human Rights act in its inquiry into Australia’s human rights framework.
An Australian Human Rights Act would provide a clear set of common standards to ensure government decision-making centres people and ensures respect and dignity for all. It also gives people a tool to challenge injustice when their rights are violated.
Quote from Caitlin Reiger, CEO of the Human Rights Law Centre:
“An Australian Human Rights Act will strengthen and protect our democracy and improve the lives of everyday people. From fighting unfair evictions in public housing, to ensuring access to education, human rights acts in Australia are already protecting basic rights.
“More than 170 organisations are backing the call for a federal Act, and the Human Rights Bill introduced by Andrew Wilkie MP is an important reminder of this broad support. Everyone benefits when the values of equality, freedom, dignity and justice are at the centre of Federal Government decisions.”
Quote from Nikita White, Strategic Campaigner at Amnesty International Australia:
“A Human Rights Act gives Australians a powerful tool to take action if they suffer human rights abuses. Australians need that tool now more than ever, whether they’re a family living in their car because they can’t afford housing or a pensioner putting off doctor’s appointments because they can’t afford healthcare. It would allow people to create better lives for themselves and for those around them, where everyone can enjoy their rights to housing, healthcare, a healthy environment, and more.”
Quote from Edwina MacDonald, Acting CEO at Australian Council of Social Services:
“A federal Human Rights Act is a critical tool to help ensure everyone gets what they need to live a good life, including an adequate income, housing, health, education, and a healthy environment.
“The Act would help make sure the government upholds our basic rights when making laws and taking actions, and provide ways for people to hold the government accountable when they don’t.
“Human Rights Acts in Queensland, Victoria and the ACT are already improving lives, including stopping unfair evictions and making public spaces and services accessible to everyone. We urgently need a federal Act so those benefits are across the country.”