Uniting Church Urges Human Rights Act After Government Shelves Religious Discrimination Reforms

The Uniting Church in Australia has voiced its dismay after the Federal Government announced it would not pursue revised religious discrimination legislation. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed on August 9 that the opportunity for action had closed due to an inability to reach a bipartisan agreement with the opposition.

Rev. Charissa Suli, President of the Uniting Church in Australia, expressed her disappointment this week, noting the setback for vulnerable communities who were anticipating enhanced protections. Just five months ago, the Church welcomed a report from the Australian Law Reform Commission that proposed stronger safeguards for LGBTIQA+ students and staff at religious schools. The Church had previously supported these proposed changes, emphasizing that student safety should always come first.

Rev. Suli criticized the decision to abandon these reforms, arguing that it perpetuates the marginalization of LGBTIQA+ individuals and exacerbates national divides. The Church has long advocated for a balanced approach to laws involving religious belief and discrimination, stressing the need to protect both religious freedoms and the rights of minorities.

The Uniting Church has consistently highlighted the importance of safeguarding vulnerable groups, and its stance remains that religious freedom and LGBTIQA+ rights are not mutually exclusive. Rev. Suli believes that it’s possible to uphold the rights of faith communities while also ensuring the safety and dignity of all individuals.

With the reform plans now on hold, Rev. Suli is calling for the government to introduce a comprehensive Human Rights Act. The Church has championed this idea for nearly twenty years, seeing it as the best way to harmonize various rights and responsibilities within a national framework. The recent report on Australia’s Human Rights Framework, which showed strong support for such a measure, reinforces the need for a holistic approach.

As a Church dedicated to justice and inclusion, the Uniting Church will continue its advocacy for a society where no one is discriminated against based on faith, gender, or sexual identity. Rev. Suli extended her support to members of the Uniting Church who may be feeling disheartened or anxious about the recent developments. She reaffirmed the Church's commitment to love, justice, and equality, promising to persist in the pursuit of true inclusivity.