For advice on discrimination and your rights, call the Australian Human Rights Commission
It is against the law for an
employer – no matter how large or small – to discriminate against
you in employment. These laws apply across
Australia.
You can make a
complaint to the Australian Human Rights Commission if you have been:
- refused employment
- dismissed
- denied a promotion, transfer or other benefits associated with employment
- given less favourable terms or conditions of employment
- denied equal access to training opportunities
- harassed or bullied.
because of
your:
- sex, including pregnancy, marital status, family responsibilities and sexual harassment
- disability, including temporary and permanent disabilities; physical, intellectual, sensory, psychiatric disabilities, diseases or illnesses; medical conditions; work related injuries; past, present and future disabilities; and association with a person with a disability
- race, including colour, descent, national or ethnic origin, immigrant status and racial hatred
- age, covering young people and older people
- sexual preference, criminal record, trade union activity or political opinion (in employment only)
Who does the law cover?
It doesn’t matter if
you are an apprentice or trainee, on probation, work part time or full time, or
if you are a casual or permanent employee, a contract worker or a commission
agent – the law protects you against discrimination in the
workplace.
All types of employers and
employment relationships are covered, including Commonwealth Government, State
Government (except under the Sex Discrimination Act), private sector,
incorporated and unincorporated associations, charities, contract and commission
based work, and recruitment and employment agencies.
Find out more in our information sheet
on anti-discrimination laws and
employment.
How are complaints resolved?
Most of the
complaints that the Commission receives are about discrimination in employment. We have a
strong record in helping people resolve complaints through
conciliation.
Conciliation is an informal process that allows the people
involved in a complaint to talk through the issues with the help of someone
impartial and settle the matter on their own terms.
The Commission is a neutral third party. We do
not represent either party. Our aim is to help people to understand the issues
and try and resolve the complaint fairly.
Outcomes will vary between complaints
but can include reinstatement to a job, compensation for lost wages, a statement
of service or an apology.
Find out
more:
- Read case studies of employment-related complaints that the Commission has helped resolve
- Frequently asked questions about how we handle complaints
- Information for people making a complaint
How do I make a complaint?
It is free to
make a complaint to the Commission.
Complaints
must be made in writing or by
email.
You can download a complaint form or complete the online complaint
form.
A complaint can be made in any
language. Follow the link for information about making a complaint in other
languages.
The Commission can arrange an interpreter in
your language or a sign language interpreter, if required. We can also help you
write out your complaint if you need
assistance.
Contact us
For more information or to discuss a
complaint contact our Complaints
Infoline.
Phone: 1300 656 419 (local
call) or 02 9284 9888
Email: complaintsinfo@humanrights.gov.au
TTY: 1800
620 241 (toll free)
Fax: 02 9284
9611
Free interpretation and translation
services are available by contacting 13 14 50 and asking for the Australian Human
Rights Commission.
