Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People's rights
Learn about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples' rights under international law and how they are protected and recognised in Australia's legal system.
Summary
Know your rights
All of us can play a part in making sure that every Australian – Indigenous and non-Indigenous – has the opportunities and choices they need to lead full and healthy lives.
Know your rights
First Peoples' rights in Australia
Discover the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples as Traditional Owners and how they are protected under Australian and international law.
Guides, statistics and facts
Access guides, fact sheets, statistics and resources to understand the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in Australia.
UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
Access the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and understand how it protects rights and drives equality for Aboriginal and Torres Strait
International Engagement with Indigenous Rights
Access international instruments and bodies that protect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples' rights globally, including key UN mechanisms and
What we're doing
Learn about what the Commission is doing to support truth-telling, reconciliation, and meaningful change across communities and organisations in Australia
Haven't found what you're looking for?
If you're looking to learn about race discrimination, we offer a dedicated section that explains what it is, how it affects people and communities, and what legal protections exist under the Racial Discrimination Act. You'll find clear, practical information and guidance on how to take action if you've experienced discrimination or want to support others.
There's nothing casual about racism
'There's nothing casual about racism' is a national anti-racism campaign for the Australian Human Rights Commission. It directly challenges the racism that appears in everyday life.
Dealing with discrimination
The Commission is an independent organisation that helps resolve complaints about discrimination, harassment and unfair treatment on the basis of race, colour, descent, gender, disability, age and other grounds.
For free advice on discrimination and your rights, or to make a complaint, call our National Information Service on 02 9284 9888/1300 656 419 (local call) or 1800 620 241 (toll free). You can also email us at complaintsinfo@humanrights.gov.au
Have you experienced racial discrimination?
We're here to help
You may want to deal with the situation yourself by raising it directly with the person or people involved or with a supervisor, manager or discrimination/harassment contact officer.
Support services
Speaking out about a traumatic experience can be distressing. If you decide to provide information to us but find that either during or after providing information, that relaying the experience(s) of trauma is causing you distress, you can access counselling support through:
Other support options
If you need support and would like to seek help to deal with health and trauma related matters, receive legal advice or make a complaint, please see the following relevant contacts.
Should you wish to report a criminal offence or if you require police assistance, but there is no immediate danger, call 131 444.
If you are feeling unsafe right now, call 000.
