Amendments to strengthen racial tolerance legislation

Published Thursday, 6 April 2006

The Victorian Premier, Steve Bracks, announced the State Government will introduce amendments to the Racial and Religious, Tolerance Act, (RRTA) which will strengthen and clarify the right of faiths to promote themselves.

Previously flagged amendments to the Act would primarily spell out and support the right of people to engage in robust discussion, as long as it did not vilify others.

The Bill aims to:

Encourage early and effective resolution of disputes and ensure frivolous complaints are vetted by the Equal Opportunity Commission of Victoria;

Strengthen investigative powers of the Equal Opportunity Commission to encourage early and effective resolution of disputes; and

Allow the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal to conduct proceedings without the appearance of complainant or defendant - facilitating earlier resolution of complaints and reducing the risk of costly and unnecessary hearings.

At a meeting of religious and community leaders in September 2005, it was agreed amendments to the Racial and Religious Tolerance Act should be considered. Mr Bracks said this legislation forms part of the agreement.

"The effect of these amendments will be to provide greater certainty for faiths, limit any costly hearings of complaints and improve the timeliness of the Act" Mr Bracks concluded.

06 April, 2006

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