Historic human rights legislation comes into force today (1 January 2020), further enhancing the protections for Queenslanders in their dealings with public entities.

Acting Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Dr Anthony Lynham said the commencement of Queensland’s Human Rights Act 2019 meant public entities had a specific obligation to act and make decisions compatible with human rights.

“From today, Queenslanders will no longer have to rely on a patchwork of protections when they believe their freedom, equality or dignity is being challenged by a public entity,” he said.

“Instead they will have access to a momentous piece of legislation – one that protects their human rights when interacting with public entities.

“This includes the State Government, local government, public service employees and other organisations performing public work.

“It’s a significant step towards a human rights-based approach to government planning, policy and service delivery.”

The Human Rights Act protects 23 human rights:

recognition and equality before the law;

right to life;

protection from torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment;

freedom from forced work;

freedom of movement;

freedom of thought, conscience, religion and belief;

freedom of expression;

peaceful assembly and freedom of association;

taking part in public life;

property rights;

privacy and reputation;

protection of families and children;

cultural rights—generally;

cultural rights—Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders;

right to liberty and security of person;

humane treatment when deprived of liberty;

fair hearing;

rights in criminal proceedings;

children in the criminal process;

right not to be tried or punished more than once;

retrospective criminal laws;

right to education; and

right to health services.

Dr Lynham said the newly established Queensland Human Rights Commission, which replaces the Anti-Discrimination Commission, would administer the new Human Rights Act.

“The Queensland Human Rights Commission will also have the power to receive and conciliate human rights complaints,” he said.