Australia is the only democractic country in the world with neither a constitutional charter of rights, nor legislation that formally protects basic human liberties. Formally enshrining human rights in law would both protect individuals and foster a community that is conscious and respectful of the needs and rights of others.

A charter of rights in this country is long overdue. A charter would protect key civil liberties, which both government bodies and the private sector must respect, as well as creating responsibilities for our community to adhere to in seeking to respect the dignity of all people in Australia.

If you support the need for better human rights protections in Australia and you also support the idea of the introduction of a Charter of Rights for Australia please click here.

A National consultation on human rights in Australia is currently taking place. Now is the chance for you to have your say on whether Australia should adopt a Federal Charter of Rights.

The Australian Lawyers Alliance strongly supports a national community consultation on how our human rights can be better protected. To find out more information on human rights, and the Alliance's position, see our:

hand Charter of Rights Background Paper

pen Charter of Rights Position Paper

TO READ MORE ABOUT THE DEBATE FOR THE INTRODUCTION OF A CHARTER OF RIGHTS THE FOLLOWING MIGHT BE USEFUL:

ABC Unleashed- Charter of Rights:
Clara Davies, National President of ALA
New Initiatives to protect fundamental rights- Answering some of the critics:
The Hon Justice Michael Kirby, AC CMG