Bills of Rights in Australia : History, Politics and Law

Arguments about the need for a bill of rights in Australia have simmered. While attempts to introduce a national bill of rights have failed, the states and territories have taken on a pioneering role with statutory bills. This title examines the arguments for and against greater protection of human rights.

We accept the universal right to live in freedom and without oppression, but are our human rights adequately protected by Australian law? Arguments about the need for a bill of rights in Australia have simmered for fifty years. While attempts to introduce a national bill of rights have failed, recently the states and territories have taken on a pioneering role with statutory bills. Bills of Rights in Australia, written by the leading experts in the field, examines the arguments for and against greater protection of human rights. Original and timely, it examines the emerging evidence of the impact of these uniquely Australian bills of rights. "The book which we launch today is a fine primer for all Australians interested in participating in this broad ranging national consultation on rights...This book will do a power of good in helping all Australians to be better informed as we conduct the national conversation on human rights in the months ahead. I commend these three academics for giving of themselves in sharing their expertise, passion and insights with the Australian public." Fr Frank Brennan, at launch of Bills of Rights in Australia, Canberra, 31 March 2009