National Human Rights Consultation

On 10 December 2008, the Australian Government launched a National Human Rights Consultation (NHRC) about the protection and promotion of human rights in Australia. The National Consultation examines 3 key questions:

• Which human rights (including corresponding responsibilities) should be protected and promoted in Australia?
• Are these human rights currently sufficiently protected and promoted?
• How could Australia better protect and promote human rights?

The National Consultation provided an important opportunity for individuals and community organisations to share their views on how human rights should be best protected and promoted in the future. The Committee received over 35,000 written submissions and hosted 66 community round tables across Australia.  More than 80% of submissions favoured the introduction of a National Human Rights Act.

For the Australian government's official response to the National Human Rights Consultation, please see below.