Charter report highlights human rights as a key driver of liveability
Download a copy of the release
‘VCOSS calls on the Victorian Government to improve liveability in Victoria by strengthening its commitment to protecting and promoting human rights’, says Cath Smith, Chief Executive Officer of the Victorian Council of Social Service.
‘The Making Progress report tabled in the Victorian Parliament yesterday highlights the strength of the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities in improving Victorians’ wellbeing and quality of life. A range of VCOSS members have implemented a human rights approach in their organisation which has achieved fairer outcomes for both individual Victorians and the community.’
‘However, the Report also highlights that further steps are required to ensure human rights are fully protected in Victoria. The social impact of legislation such as that which gives police more powerful stop and search powers severely limits the rights of particular groups, including young people, Indigenous Victorians and homeless people.’
‘Further steps are also required to improve equality in Victoria, including addressing systemic discrimination. VCOSS believes that the current Equal Opportunity Bill 2010 before Parliament is a key step to achieving this.’
‘It is clear from the Report that there is nothing to be feared and much to be gained from a Charter in Victoria. By protecting human rights, we create fairer laws, policies and practices which ultimately will improve liveability for all Victorians.’
For more information, or to arrange an interview
contact John Kelly – M: 0425 701 080Follow the conversation at www.twitter.com/vcoss
VCOSS
Level 8, 128 Exhibition Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
T: 03 9654 5050 F: 03 9654 5749 W: vcoss@vcoss.org.au E: vcoss@vcoss.org.au