THE HON MARK DREYFUS QC MP
ATTORNEY-GENERAL
CABINET SECRETARY
MEMBER FOR ISAACS
MEDIA RELEASE
Restoring the standing of the Australian Human Rights Commission
The Albanese Labor Government has today acted to restore the international reputation of the Australian Human Rights Commission.
The Australian Human Rights Commission Legislation Amendment (Selection and Appointment) Bill 2022, introduced today, will ensure all future appointments to the AHRC are made through a merit-based and transparent process.
In March this year the AHRC had its re-accreditation as an ‘A’-status National Human Rights Institution deferred due to successive Coalition governments breaching international principles by appointing Commissioners with no consultation or transparency.
The downgrading of the AHRC would damage Australia’s international reputation. It is yet another damning indictment of the former government and a direct reflection on its nine years of constant attacks on the Commission’s independence.
The AHRCs accreditation should never have been put under threat.
I’m proud that my first bill as Attorney-General in the Albanese Labor Government delivers on our election promise to ensure all future appointments to the Australian Human Rights Commission are made through a merit-based and transparent process.
This is all part of the Albanese Government’s commitment to restore transparency and integrity to government.
An independent Human Rights Commission is fundamental to Australia’s human rights agenda - both internationally and domestically.
The Albanese Labor Government strongly supports the work of the Australian Human Rights Commission and is committed to restoring its international reputation.
WEDNESDAY, 27 JULY 2022
