Attorney-General Robert McClelland hints at consultation on Charter of Rights

30/10/2008

Attorney-General Robert McClelland, in a speech delivered at a NSW Young Lawyers forum, has reviewed the Rudd government’s progress in implementing international human rights instruments and other items on�its agenda. The attorney foreshadowed a consultation process on human rights and responsibilities, including on a Charter of Rights.�He said:

We want to encourage a broad community debate on a range of human rights issues – not only on whether a Charter or Bill of Rights is necessary. From the cities to the bush, any new approach to human rights will be drawn from the views of the Australian people.

The attorney said that the consultation programme would be widely advertised across Australia and encouraged members of the legal profession to participate.

�View the attorney's speech>

30 October 2008