July 2024: Commission News | President's letter
Commission – General
Dear friends,
I am pleased to report the Free + Equal Conference was a resounding success. A big thank you to everyone who participated in these timely and significant discussions about human rights and the urgent need for a Human Rights Act in Australia.
A snapshot of the conference:
- 700+ delegates pledged support for a national Human Rights Act
- 60+ speakers
- 1200+ attendees over two days
- 12 panels.
Before the conclusion of our historic Free + Equal Conference, more than 700 human rights advocates from across Australia have called on the Federal Government to introduce a Human Rights Act.
Read the statement supported by delegates in full.
Every step the Federal Government should take to better protect human rights is laid out in precise detail in our series of Free + Equal reports, all of which have been released in this term of government. The hard thinking has been done, the design work has been done, and the necessary support has been gained from right across the country.
What a gift to the Parliament, to the Government and to the people of Australia – a roadmap for a significant and popular reform is sitting on a silver platter, ready to go!
I am proud that the small but mighty Australian Human Rights Commission – as Australia’s National Human Rights Institution – has played its part in identifying and preparing this generational reform agenda for government.
As many of you know, my time as President will be coming to an end on 29 July. This is a bittersweet moment for me. While I am excited for the next chapter, I am deeply grateful for the honour and privilege it has been to have led an incredible team for the past seven years.
Looking back, I am filled with pride for everything we've achieved together. We've tackled challenging projects, navigated difficult times, and ultimately, made a real difference, particularly in advocating for a national Human Rights Act, justice for First Nations people, gender equality, anti-racism and so much more.
I have no doubt that the Commission will continue to thrive under Hugh de Kretser's leadership.
I wish you all the very best in your future endeavours.
Sincerely,
President Emeritus Professor Rosalind Croucher AM FAAL FRSA FACLM (Hon) FRSN
