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Commission – General

Statement: Inquiry into antisemitism at Australian Universities

President Hugh de Kretser gave at opening statement at the Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee Inquiry into the proposed Commission of Inquiry into Antisemitism at Australian Universities Bill (2024)

October 2024: Commission News | President's message

Dear friends,

Australia is one of the safest, most stable and prosperous countries on the planet. For most of us, most of the time, it is a great place to live. For many Australians, human rights violations are things that happen to other people in other places, often overseas.

This can lead to complacency about our own rights protection and the importance of protecting the rights of those less fortunate in our country. We need to understand that when everyone’s rights are protected, it benefits us all. Our society is stronger and healthier.

Commission President reiterates calls for upholding human rights as violence in the Middle East escalates

Content type: Media Release
Published:
As the violence in the Middle East escalates, and with the approaching anniversary of the brutal 7 October attacks by Hamas and the start of Israel’s devastating and continuing response, the President of the Australian Human Rights Commission has reiterated its call for upholding human rights and international humanitarian law.

September 2024: Commission News | President's Message

Dear friends, 
 

It was good to reflect at the recent Law Institute of Victoria Legal Sector Dinner on access to justice, the role of lawyers and the law. 

 

Too often our legal system delivers unequal access to justice – different standards of justice depending on who you are, where you live and how much is in your bank account. 

 

Corporate Plan 2024-2025

Date

A Human Rights Act for Australia

Human rights are the blueprint for a decent, dignified life for all. Human rights are the key to creating the kind of society we all want to live in. A speech by Commission President, Hugh de Krester.

Melbourne Holocaust Museum Launch of "Critical Thinking is Critical”

Human rights are the key to creating the kind of society we all want to live in. The values at the heart of the work of this museum – humanity, kindness and fairness – are human rights values. A speech by Hugh de Krester.

Commission supports Bill to recognise adequate housing as a human right

Content type: Media Release
Published:
The Australian Human Rights Commission has supported a private member’s bill that would recognise the human right to adequate housing and support improved housing outcomes for all Australians. 

August 2024: Commission News | President's message

The Australian Human Rights Commission is a vital national institution which has been promoting justice and human rights for Australians for close to forty years. It is an honour to write to you as the Commission’s new President.

President - Hugh de Kretser

Tuesday 6 August, 2024
You can learn about Hugh de Kretser, who commenced his 5 year as President of the Human Rights Commission in July 2024.