Consultation news
Deep discussion in Dandenong
Following on from our Melbourne sessions, the Dandenong roundtable offered the chance to hear from regional Victoria. The roundtable was very well-attended, with the room filled beyond capacity and people eager to share their views and opinions about human rights in Australia.
Much of the discussion focussed on the pros and cons of the Victorian Charter of Rights and the potential implications of extending this to some form of national statutory charter.
A representative of the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission gave a detailed explanation of the structure and operation of the Victorian Charter and how it was changing the culture of government decision-making.
A range of views in relation to a charter of rights or a bill of rights were expressed. Many participants favoured some form of additional protection for human rights, whether through a charter or legislative change. Likewise, participants felt strongly that if a charter were to be developed, we must ensure that it is available and presented in accessible, easy-to-understand language.
Another point that was strongly emphasised by participants was the need for human rights education, a recurring theme in our sessions so far.
Thank you Dandenong; the points you raised and discussed were a valuable addition to the Consultation process.
Tammy Williams and Philip Flood