Age Discrimination
Young, old and everyone in between – Australians of all ages have the right to be treated fairly and to enjoy the same opportunities as others.
Meet the Commissioner
The Hon Dr Kay Patterson AO
Dr Patterson began her role as the Age Discrimination Commissioner on 29th July, 2016. She has demonstrated a strong interest in issues affecting older people throughout her professional life. Leaving school at 15 and then managing a small business, she returned to school and gained a BA (Hons) at the University of Sydney and a PhD in Psychology and Dip Ed at Monash University.
She taught allied health science students for 11 years. She studied gerontology at two universities in the USA and used the knowledge gained during those visits to co-develop the first Victorian post-graduate diploma in gerontology and to introduce gerontology into the undergraduate behavioural science courses.
Latest News
Age Discrimination
Generational divide? It’s more myth than reality
Although antagonism between the generations is often seen as inevitable, the ‘generational wars’ we hear about are not supported by Australians themselves. A new report by the Australian Human Rights Commission, What’s age got to do with it? A snapshot of ageism across the Australian lifespan...
Age Discrimination
New campaign on the warning signs of elder abuse
A new campaign to raise awareness of elder abuse has been launched by the Australian Human Rights Commission to mark the International Day of Older Persons (1 October 2021).
Age Discrimination
New research finds ageism is the most accepted form of prejudice in Australia
A new report released today by the Australian Human Rights Commission has found most Australians (90%) agree ageism exists in Australia, with 83% agreeing ageism is a problem and 65% saying it affects people of all ages.
Top Projects
Age Discrimination
Elder abuse
Elder abuse can take various forms, including: financial, physical, psychological, emotional and sexual abuse, or neglect. No older person should be subjected to any form of abuse.
Age Discrimination
Risk of Homelessness in Older Women
Age Discrimination
