 Protecting human rights fundamental to a just and inclusive democracy

 Charter would ensure human rights consideration in all Tasmanian law

A re-elected Majority Labor Government will commit to introduce a Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities to ensure all Tasmanians are given protection and inclusion in their communities.

In the lead-up to International Human Rights Day this week, Labor Leader Rebecca White said protecting and promoting human rights is a fundamental part of a just, inclusive and free democracy.

“Human rights ensure that everyone is treated equally, with dignity and respect but although countries around the world offer protection of rights, only Victoria and the ACT have a Charter of Rights and Responsibilities,” Ms White said.

“The Tasmanian Charter will help to inform people of their rights, freedoms and responsibilities in the one document and provide a basis for action to be taken if their rights are being infringed.

“It will ensure that human rights are considered whenever legislation is developed.

“A Majority Labor Government will establish a Premier’s Human Rights Advisory Council made up of representation from government, human rights specialists, the community sector, advocacy groups and Aboriginal Tasmanians within the first year of the next term of government.”

Shadow Attorney-General Lara Giddings said the Tasmanian Law Reform Institute had consulted with the community as long as a decade ago and found overwhelming support for a comprehensive Charter of Human Rights in Tasmania.

“The former Labor Government developed a consultation paper in 2010 exploring a model for a Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities for Tasmania but was prevented from pursuing the Charter after the impact of the Global Financial Crisis on the state budget,” Ms Giddings said.

“The aim of the Charter is to clearly list human rights and freedoms in the one place where they are easily accessed and understood and provide effective ways for Tasmanians to challenge any violation of those rights.

“A Charter is about building a culture in which each person’s needs are placed first rather than continue with policies and practices that deny basic rights.

“There are countless examples of violations of human rights across the world where a Charter of Human Rights could have made a difference, such as people being denied their rights and even employment or adequate health care on the basis of their religious beliefs or sexual orientation or age.

“Those type of violations have no place in a modern Tasmania.”
Rebecca White MP Labor Leader Lara Giddings MP Shadow Attorney-General