27 April 1999
Does Age really matter?
Launch of an age discrimination discussion paper by the Human Rights Commissioner
Date: Wednesday
28th April 1999
Time: 2.00 - 5.00pm
Venue: Meeting Room, University House, Australian National University,
Canberra
Human Rights Commissioner Chris Sidoti will convene a forum in Canberra tomorrow to launch "Age matters?" a discussion paper on age discrimination as part of the Commission's contribution to the International Year of Older Persons.
"The paper highlights how both young and old people often encounter age discrimination particularly with regard to work", said Mr Sidoti. "While some distinctions that create these barriers are justified, many others are based on assumptions and out-dated stereotypes about the skills of people in particular age groups."
With Tasmania's new anti-discrimination act due to commence in mid-1999, age discrimination will be unlawful under all state and territory anti-discrimination laws. However, federal legislation provides only limited protection.
Issues canvassed in the paper include the compulsory retirement of Commonwealth government employees at the age of 65. At the other end of the spectrum the new Youth Allowance system is structured on assumptions about when young people will become independent and the application of a parental means test depends on the age of the young applicant.
"The paper raises questions about age distinctions across a range of social areas. It argues that individuals should be assessed on the basis of their skills rather than their age", said Mr Sidoti.
The discussion paper will be launched jointly by Sheila Rimmer, National President of the Council on the Ageing (COTA) and David Matthews, Executive Officer of the Australian Youth Policy and Action Coalition (AYPAC).
The discussion paper invites public comment on a broad range of issues relating to age discrimination. Submissions on the discussion paper will close on 27 August 1999. Submissions will inform recommendations to be made to the Federal Attorney-General and Parliament.
For further information please contact: Erin Broderick on (02) 9284 9880 or 0419 258 597.
Last updated 2 December 2001.
