Welcoming the call for a Human Rights Act
New report of parliamentary inquiry recommends national legislation
June 3, 2024
The Uniting Church Assembly was proud to be among more than 100 organisations welcoming the call for a national Human Rights Act following the recommendations of a new report tabled in Parliament.
Labor MP Josh Burns, Chair of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Human Rights, launched the report of its Inquiry into Australia’s Human Rights Framework and recommendations on Thursday. It was noted that 87% of submissions received by the Inquiry supported the adoption of a national Human Rights Act.
Assembly General Secretary (Interim) Rev Lindsay Cullen was quoted in the media release from the Human Rights Law Centre following the release of the report.
“The Uniting Church believes that all human rights are important, interdependent and interrelated," said Rev Cullen.
"For years the Uniting Church in Australia Assembly has advocated for the holistic approach of a Human Rights Act as an answer to the many competing claims and values inherent in the discussion about human rights."
"We believe a Human Rights Act is the best approach to give protection in law and accountability when rights are breached, as well as playing a role in educating the Australian community."
“The Uniting Church believes that all human rights are important, interdependent and interrelated."
Subscribe to our newsletter
If you want to get the latest news from the Uniting Church in Australia then subscribe to our weekly newsletter delivered to your inbox.
The Inquiry also recommended ongoing funding for human rights education in the Australian community, targeted consultation including with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and a review of existing legislation.
The Assembly has advocated for a holistic approach to human rights since at least 2006. It has maintained and strengthened this position during debates over religious discrimination legislation in recent years.
The Assembly is an official supporter of the Human Rights Act campaign, along with the Uniting Church Synod of NSW/ACT.
Further reading
- Report: Inquiry into Australia's Human Rights Framework
- An inquiry has recommended Australia legislate a Human Rights Act. Here’s why we need one (The Conversation)
- Report finds ‘clear need’ for an Australian Human Rights Act. What difference would it make? (The Conversation)
- Federal Human Rights Act could help prevent policy failures like robodebt, parliamentary inquiry says (The Guardian)
- 101 Case Studies on how human rights acts and charters make our lives better (Human Rights Act Campaign)
More justice news
Bearing witness to Palestinian Christian voices
Bearing witness to Palestinian Christian voicesAs World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel takes place this week, the Uniting Church is invited to listen, pray and stand in solidarity with communities longing for peace and justice. In July this year, the Uniting Church hosted two Palestinian Christians as part of the “Bearing Witness: Palestinian…
President’s Prayer for the UN International Day of Peace
President’s Prayer for the United Nations International Day of Peace The United Nations International Day of Peace, commemorated on 21 September, brings people around the world together to reflect on the urgent work of building and sustaining peace. The 2026 theme, “Invest in Peace – For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day” highlights that peace is…
Pilgrims of Peace, Trust and Hope
Pilgrims of Peace, Trust and Hope Last week, President-elect Rev Dr Paul Goh gathered with the global ecumenical community to discuss the Church’s role in speaking for peace, justice and hope amid the wounds of divisionSubscribe to our newsletterIf you want to get the latest news from the Uniting Church in Australia then subscribe to…
Season of Creation 2026
Christians around the world will mark the Season of Creation from 1 September to 4 October, joining in prayer, reflection and action as they celebrate God’s gift of creation and renew their commitment to care for our common home. This season incorporates the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation…
Satara’s story: listening for justice
Satara’s story: listening for justice Meet Satara Uthayakumaran, whose lifelong faith journey in the Uniting Church has shaped her commitment to justice, service and amplifying young people’s voicesFor Satara Uthayakumaran, advocacy has never been about having the loudest voice in the room. It has always begun with listening. At just 23, the lifelong member of…
200 years of Christianity in Tonga
Uniting Church joins Tonga in celebrating 200 years of Christianity UCA President Rev Charissa Suli, alongside Moderators, former missionaries, ministers, young people and members from across Australia joined the Free Wesleyan Church of Tonga in celebrating the bicentenary of the Christian Church in Tonga Representatives of the Uniting Church in Australia today joined the…
Refugee Week 2026: A million stories, one shared humanity
From 14–20 June, churches, community groups and organisations across Australia will mark Refugee Week 2026, an opportunity to celebrate the courage, resilience and contributions of people who have sought safety and a new beginning in this country. This year’s theme, “A Million Stories”, marks a significant milestone: since…
Equitable energy upgrades: caring for people, caring for creation
Equitable energy upgrades:caring for people, caring for creation An environmental initiative, led by Armidale Uniting Church, is helping vulnerable households access the benefits of the clean energy transition, combining practical support, energy justice and community care By Trevor Brown and Rev Simon Hansford, Armidale Uniting Church In Armidale, on Anaiwan Country on the Northern…