ACT Government consultation on the inclusion of economic, social and cultural rights in the Human Rights Act 2004

PIAC supports a ‘human rights approach’ as a means of fostering a fair, just and democratic society. This submission is made in response to the Australia Capital Territory Government’s review into the inclusion of economic, social and cultural rights under the Human Rights Act 2004 (ACT) (the HRA). This submission concludes that while the HRA is having a positive impact upon rights protection in the ACT, that the inclusion of economic, social and cultural rights is essential. PIAC reached this conclusion with reference to the lack of protection of the rights to housing and health of people experiencing homelessness in both NSW and the ACT, and on the basis of overwhelming community support in the ACT for legislative protection of economic, social and cultural rights.