Why NSW Needs a Human Rights Act Now

Australia’s proud history on human rights 

Australia has a strong history of protecting and promoting human rights, reflected in the country’s instrumental role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the ratification of the most fundamental international human rights treaties.

Yet, Australia is one of only a small number of liberal democracies without a national charter of rights or Human Rights Act outlining people’s basic rights and how they are protected, leaving Australian citizens with limited recourse to challenge domestic human rights violations.

The need for a NSW Human Rights Act

Jenny Leong MP’s Human Rights Bill proposes to establish a statutory human rights framework for NSW and impose measures to support the protection of our rights.

New South Wales currently has no charter of rights protecting the fundamental freedoms of those who call it home despite other states introducing their own human rights laws.

As rights holders, people seeking asylum should be able to rebuild their lives in Australia in a way that respects their dignity. However, the current system systematically excludes them from accessing basic social services and gives little regard for their rights while they live in the community awaiting the outcomes of their claims for protection.

Passing this legislation is an opportunity to push the NSW Government to give greater consideration to human rights and to establish a NSW Human Rights Commission, creating an accessible, low-cost watchdog for human rights complaints and remedies.

The Asylum Seekers Centre welcomes the introduction of this Bill and the opportunity to respond to this inquiry.We stand with MP Jenny Leong as she brings this legislation to the NSW Parliament. This is a crucial step to achieving dignity, equality, and respect for every person, including people seeking asylum, in our state.

Read our full submission here.