From 1 April 2016 the Commission also has the additional roles and functions of the Victims of Crime Commissioner and the Public Advocate.

Human rights are essential in a democratic and inclusive society that respects the rule of law, human dignity, equality and freedom. Human rights are entitlements that belong to every human being regardless of age, sex or culture.

Human rights are internationally recognised principles, as underpinned by the United Nations and agreed to by many countries. International human rights provide a guideline to governments on how to treat and care for citizens.

In Australia, human rights have protections offered by way of common law and legislation.  However, there is no federal bill of rights specifically for the protection of human rights, nor is there consistent legislative protection of human rights between states.

In the ACT, the Human Rights Commission is an independent agency established by the Human Rights Commission Act 2005.

The Commission provides a fair and accessible process for dealing with complaints about discrimination, health services, disability services, services for older people, community services, and services for children and young people. In addition, the Commission promotes service improvement in government, and raises human rights awareness within the community.

Current Human Rights Commission Website:

Current Victims Support Website: