Racism
Everyone has the right to live free from racial discrimination. Racism can be defined as:
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the belief that human races have distinctive characteristics which determine their respective cultures, usually involving the idea that one's own race is superior and has the right to rule or dominate others
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offensive or aggressive behaviour to members of another race stemming from such a belief
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a policy or system of government and society based on it
The Australian Human Rights Commission administers the Racial Discrimination Act. A plain language Guide to the Racial Discrimination Act is available. It includes information about landmark cases, conciliated complaints and the provisions of the Racial Hatred Act.
For more information on the work of the Australian Race Discrimination Commissioner click here
All states and territories also have laws that address racial discrimination. For an overview click here
For case studies and examples of race discrimination click here
For programs to minimise racism in schools click here
Resources for teaching and learning around racism include:
- Youth Challenge Unit 3 ‘Young People in the Workplace’
- Voices of Australia Education Module
- Face the Facts
- Good practice, good business
- The
Racial Hatred Act - A Guide for People Working in the Australian
Media
For relevant publications click here
For relevant speeches click here
For relevant submissions from the Australian Human Rights Commission click here
Lodge a complaint with the Australian Human Rights Commission on 1300 656 419 or click here