A coalition of 47 civil society and community organisations, known as HRA4NSW, is calling for a public inquiry into establishing a Human Rights Act for New South Wales (NSW). Their appeal follows a recent bill notification from the NSW Greens, signalling a chance to foster a fairer society where dignity, equality, and respect are enshrined in law.
Currently, NSW trails behind states like the Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, and Queensland, which have successfully enacted Human Rights Acts. The momentum across Australia is palpable, with other jurisdictions also examining the introduction of similar protections, urging swift action from NSW to ensure its citizens’ human rights are safeguarded.
The urgency expressed by advocates is echoed by Amnesty International’s Nikita White, who highlights the necessity of a Human Rights Act as a valuable resource for vulnerable individuals. According to her, the Act would empower those facing housing instability or healthcare inaccessibility, thereby fostering an environment where everyone’s rights to essential services are upheld.
Kerry Weste, the spokesperson for HRA4NSW, draws attention to the benefits seen in other states, noting that enacted laws have led to tangible improvements in the lives of individuals facing various challenges, such as domestic violence and mobility issues. This underscores the need for similar frameworks in NSW to strengthen support for its residents.
Tim Roberts, President of the NSW Council for Civil Liberties (NSWCCL), asserts that a Human Rights Act would align NSW with international human rights standards and offer crucial protection. It would facilitate accessible pathways for individuals to seek redress for rights infringements, thereby nurturing a culture of human rights and equality in the community.
Furthermore, Sarah Marland, Executive Director of CLCNSW, emphasises that without a Human Rights Act, the most vulnerable in NSW lack essential legal protections, leading to detrimental effects on their quality of life. She insists that human rights must underpin governmental processes, ensuring justice for all.
Megan Spindler-Smith, Deputy CEO of People With Disability Australia, adds that a comprehensive human rights framework is essential to safeguard the rights of people with disabilities, tackling the neglect and abuse they often face. She stresses that the enforcement mechanisms must be sufficiently resourced to uphold new protections effectively.
Lastly, Dr Amy Maguire from the University of Newcastle highlights the voices of young people in NSW, who advocate for legislative action to safeguard their human rights amid societal challenges. Recognising these disparities, she argues that legal human rights protections not only promote better opportunities but are vital for fostering a just society across NSW.
HRA4NSW, a coalition of 47 organisations, advocates for a Human Rights Act in NSW to protect individual dignity and equality. Following a bill by the NSW Greens, stakeholders stress the urgent need for legal frameworks to safeguard human rights, citing successful examples from other states. Prominent voices, including Amnesty International and disability advocates, emphasise the necessity of such legislation for vulnerable populations.
The campaign for a Human Rights Act in New South Wales is gaining momentum, supported by various influential organisations and leaders urging the government to prioritise the rights of its citizens. With a growing consensus on the necessity of legislative protections, there is a clear call for action to ensure every individual in the state can live with dignity, equality, and respect. Implementing such an Act promises to enhance the quality of life for the vulnerable and promote a culture of rights across the community.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org.au
