Legal Issues
A landmark High Court decision has set a significant legal precedent. Victims of rape and of other traumatic events who suffer psychological illness may be able to sue for compensation many years later.
Rights, Responsibilities and Respect.
The report by the Human Rights Consultation Committee, Victoria, chaired by Professor George Williams with committee members Rhonda Galbally AO, Andrew Gaze and The Hon Professor Haddon Storey QC, was presented to the Victorian Government in November 2005. The report recommends that the Victorian Parliament should enact a Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities. It should be an ordinary Act of Parliament like human rights laws operating in the Australian Capital Territory, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. This would ensure the continuing sovereignty of the Victorian Parliament. CLICK here for the Human Rights Chart.
Accountability of Governments and Public Servants.
The Melbourne Conversations and Future Leaders Forum on accountability issues was held at the BMW Edge on 27 June. Although it was a cold and rainy night, about 560 people showed their concern and support for initiatives in this area. Many no doubt, were WEL members. There were four speakers.
Dr Helen Szoke, CEO Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission described the impact this Victorian legislation is having. Mr Lex Lasry Q.C. emphasised the role the legal profession needs to play in developing accountability. Dr Zoe Wainer, President of the AMA, drew on her professional experiences, to illustrate the consequences of accountability confusions and David Marr reviewed some recent examples of 'systemic failures'. While speakers did not address the questions of "What's to be done now?" the questions from the audience, and the talk after the meeting, showed there is support for action now. The Hamer Family fund supported the accountability initiative with a flyer advising members of the public to contact their electorate's candidates on the accountability issue.
CLICK on the items below for detailed information on the various issues:
Provocation no excuse
Crackdown on childtraffickers
Prostitution 0405
Discussion on Sex work
National Abuse free Contact Campaign
