About Racial Discrimination
The Racial Discrimination Act 1975 protects individuals across Australia from discrimination on the grounds of race, colour, descent, or national or ethnic origin. In 1995 the Act was extended to make racial vilification against the law.
The Act gives effect to Australia’s obligations under the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, which the federal Government ratified in September 1975.
Under the Act, individuals can lodge complaints of racial discrimination and racial vilification with the Australian Human Rights Commission.
A plain language Guide to the Racial Discrimination Act is available on this page. It includes information about landmark cases, conciliated complaints and the provisions of the Racial Hatred Act.
The Race Discrimination Commissioner, Dr Helen Szoke works to increase community awareness of and compliance with the federal laws. She provides submissions to Parliamentary and other inquiries, gives speeches and develops policy advice on key issues.
The Commissioner may also be invited to provide assistance in matters before the Federal Court and the Federal Magistrates Service relating to racial discrimination.
