Human Rights Framework Resources

Human Rights Framework Resources

The Castan Centre has a long standing commitment to the domestic implementation of human rights in Australian law. We are committed to the enactment of a Federal Human Rights Act. We are a leading research, education and policy centre. We work to create a more just world where human rights are respected, protected and fulfilled, and where all people are allowed to flourish in freedom and dignity.

The Castan Centre welcomes the release of the Parliamentary report on Australia's Human Rights Framework

Read the Castan Centre for Human Rights Law's statement on the release of the report of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Human Rights (PJCHR) on its Inquiry into Australia’s Human Rights Framework.

Read our statement

Programs and events

Coming Soon

Blogs, podcasts and media

Why the time is right for Australia to enact a Human Rights Act

Advances in the push for a national Human Rights Act by Julie Debeljak Associate Professor, Law Resources, Monash University

Human Rights Day 2022

A Federal Human Rights Act to Deliver Climate Justice by Scott Walker, Castan Centre for Human Rights, Faculty of Law, Monash University

Religious schools can build a community of faith without discriminating. The law should reflect that.

By Liam Elphick, Alice Taylor and Robin Banks

There’s never been a better time: Enhancing the protection of human rights in Australia

By Professor Paula Gerber, Faculty of Law, Monash University

Human Rights as an Investment in the Future

Professors Michael Mintrom and Professor Paula Gerber say we need to consider the societal benefits – and financial rewards – of policies that support human rights. Listen to episode.

Human rights and election campaigns: Never the twain shall meet?

By Professor Paula Gerber and Professor Melissa Castan, Faculty of Law, Monash University.

Interstate human rights jurisprudence confirms the certainty and coherence of the Victorian Charter, but we can learn a thing or two from Queensland

by Scott Walker, Castan Centre for Human Rights, Faculty of Law, Monash University.

History shows Australian laws have left minorities marginalised. A Human Rights Act would help fix that

By Michael Kirby, Instead of inquiries and apologies, a bill of rights could give people access to justice and ensure governments are held to account

Books, chapters, articles and policy submissions

Critical Perspectives on Human Rights Law Volumes 1 and 2

Critical Perspectives on Human Rights Law in Australia  volumes 1 and 2 edited by Castan Centre Director Professor Melissa Castan and Academic Member Professor Paula Gerber provides a comprehensive, accessible and scholarly examination of many of the key human rights issues facing Australia today.

These books are written for human rights and scholars, legal practitioners, and individuals wanting to increase their understanding of the field, with a timely and engaging discussion of the laws and policies impacting on the enjoyment of human rights in contemporary Australia.  The editors, both distinguished human rights scholars, have compiled contributions from leading and emerging Australian experts in human rights, drawn from both legal and non-legal disciplines, and from varied backgrounds.

You  can purchase the books here.

Facts and figures

Facts and figures

Facts and figures