Rights in Australia - Parliamentary Education Office

Front

What is a right?

Back

A right is a moral or legal entitlement to have or be able to do something. Rights are created by laws.

Front

What are social and economic rights?

Back

Social and economic rights are rights we need to live with dignity, such as housing, healthcare, sanitation, food, and education.

Front

What are civil and political rights?

Back

Civil and political rights are rights we need to participate in society as free and active citizens, including freedom of movement, assembly, speech, protest, and religion.

Front

What are human rights?

Back

Human rights are rights that all people are entitled to, no matter who they are or where they live, protected by international law.

Front

What is the role of the Australian Constitution in rights?

Back

The Australian Constitution is the source of some civil and political rights, such as trial by jury and freedom of religion.

Front

What is the significance of the High Court of Australia regarding rights?

Back

The High Court interprets the Constitution and has found implied rights, such as freedom of political communication.

Front

What is the role of international law in Australian rights?

Back

Australia has signed many international human rights agreements, but they are not automatically enforceable in Australia.

Front

What is statute law?

Back

Statute law is law made by parliaments, and it plays a central role in enacting Australia's human rights obligations.

Front

What is common law?

Back

Common law is law made by judges in courts, and it includes rights like the right to a fair trial.

Front

What is the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC)?

Back

The AHRC is an independent government organization that protects and promotes human rights in Australia.