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Event to launch a Human Rights Act for Queensland by Maree Klemm 31 August 2015
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here’s a free event to launch a Human Rights Act for Queensland at Parliament house on 14 September. This campaign is being supported by apolitical NGOs and individuals and there is no specific commitment to form and content of any legislation at this stage - rather showing the legislators that there is widespread support for human rights standards to be legislated in Qld. All are welcome. The Parliamentary Speaker Peter Wellington MP secured a commitment to a Human Rights Act in his terms to form the current government and below the text of what was passed at the state ALP conference over the weekend. The ALP’s policy platform was endorsed – it includes: “Labor will introduce a charter of human rights and responsibilities in Queensland.” The following motion introduced by Peter Russo MP was passed unopposed: “This Labor conference: Affirms Labor’s commitment to human rights and acknowledges our proud record of enacting progressive human rights legislation. Condemns the human rights abuses that took place under the Newman LNP Government and its successive attacks on workers, the LGBTIQ community, women, unions, the disabled,
Leeanne Enoch MP, will open the meeting with an acknowledgement of the Traditional Owners. Image: Lyndon Mechielsen
the disadvantaged and the marginalised. Expresses concern over the future of human rights in Queensland under another LNP Government. Acknowledges the positive impact the enactment of human rights legislation by other State, Territory and Federal Labor Governments has had in promoting a strong culture of respect for human rights and for bringing Australia into line with other liberal democracies. Calls on the Palaszczuk Government to conduct a parliamentary inquiry and to introduce a Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities as a matter of priority.” It is time for the introduction of a Human Rights Act in Queensland. Queensland’s unique single house parliamentary
system leaves us exposed to the misuse of government power. A Human Rights Act would protect Queenslanders and improve Queensland’s system of government. Victorians and residents of the ACT have enjoyed the protection of human rights laws for years. Their experience is one of improved government accountability, improved service delivery and more transparent decision-making. Join us at Queensland’s Parliament House for a conversation about the role of a Human Rights Act in a free and democratic society. Leeanne Enoch MP, Minister for Housing and Public Works and Minister for Science and Innovation will open the meeting with an acknowledgement of the Traditional Owners.
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