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Human Rights Charter

The charter will ensure human rights are valued and protected within government and the community. The charter collates and expresses our civil and political rights in a clear and common sense way that can be understood by all.

The preamble to the charter outlines its founding principles, recognising that all people are born free and equal in dignity and rights. The Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities became law on 25 July 2006.

Why do we need the charter?

The charter is important for a number of reasons:

• Legal - The charter reinforces protection in existing laws and provides clear protection of 'new' rights (such as freedom of expression, freedom from forced work, and protection against cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment).
  
• Political - The charter ensures transparency and accountability in government, sets human rights as a priority for government, and ensures government takes human rights into account when making laws and delivering services.
• Educational - The charter increases public awareness of human rights.
• Symbolic - The charter is a statement of values and principles for the Victorian Community.