Consultation news
Well-considered comments in Wodonga
Our Wodonga roundtable came at the tail-end of a week of rewarding consultations held across Victoria. And Wodonga certainly didn’t disappoint, with a group of well-considered and passionate participants.
Among the group were a number of teenagers and several teachers. Accordingly, one of the chief topics of concern raised related to the rights of the vulnerable and the right to education. It was very interesting to be able to listen to the diversity of views shared on these topics.
From there, discussion flowed to the role of the Victorian Office of the Public Advocate (who promotes the human rights, interests and dignity of Victorians with a disability). Among the proposals raised in relation to this, was for a Commonwealth Public Advocate to be appointed, who would ensure access to justice and better protection of human rights.
There was a strong focus on the different laws which apply in New South Wales and Victoria, and the problems these differences create for people living on the border. Many of those participating were in favour of national protections that do not discriminate over state borders.
We would like to thank the participants from Wodonga for the interesting perspectives they raised and the honesty with which they shared their views and experiences.
Tammy Williams and Philip Flood