Law, justice & securityStatutory authority
Human Rights Commission
HRC
10 December 1981 – 10 December 1986
Australia's first national human rights body, which examined Commonwealth laws and practices for consistency with international human rights instruments, handled complaints and promoted human rights education.
How it came into existence
Established on 10 December 1981 under the Human Rights Commission Act 1981 as a new statutory commission.
Legislation: Human Rights Commission Act 1981
Changes during its life
- 1 August 1984Took on administration of the Sex Discrimination Act 1984, with a Sex Discrimination Commissioner appointed as a member of the commission.
How it ended
Replaced on 10 December 1986 by the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, which took over its functions under the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Act 1986.
- Human rights complaints and inquiries
- Sex Discrimination Act functions
Main functions
- Examination of Commonwealth laws against human rights instruments
- Inquiries into human rights complaints
- Human rights research and education
- Administration of the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (from 1984)
Where it sits
Last in the portfolio of Attorney-General's Department.
Lineage
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