Today marks 50 years since the passage of the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (RDA) through the Australian Parliament, a landmark in Australia's commitment to human rights and a powerful affirmation of our shared commitment to equality and dignity for all.
Race Discrimination Commissioner Giridharan Sivaraman: "For five decades, the RDA has stood as a cornerstone of our legal and moral framework. It was the first federal law to make racial discrimination unlawful in Australia, and it remains a vital tool in our ongoing fight against racism.
"Since its enactment, the RDA has empowered thousands to seek justice, shaped legal precedents, and driven public awareness. It has also paved the way for further reforms, including the Sex Discrimination Act and Disability Discrimination Act, helping to build a more inclusive society.
"As we commemorate this milestone, we honour the strength and leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. They have strengthened other communities' efforts to stamp out racism in Australia.
"However, the work we need to do to address racism in our country is far from over. Systemic racism persists, and many communities still face barriers in health, education, employment and justice.
"This anniversary is not just a time to reflect - it's a call to action. We must confront the structures that perpetuate inequality, expand access to justice, and embrace a society where everyone is respected and can thrive free from discrimination.
"I urge individuals, communities, institutions and governments across Australia to recommit to the vision of the RDA: a nation where racial equality is not just a legal standard, but a lived reality.
"The Commission introduced the National Anti-Racism Framework in November last year, a landmark call for a whole-of-society approach to anti-racism.
The Framework also recommends reform of the RDA, through the introduction of a positive duty which would legally put the onus on organisations to protect individuals and groups from discrimination.
"I hope the Federal Government takes meaningful action by supporting the recommendations in the National Anti-Racism Framework".
"Let this be a timely moment of renewal. Together, we can build a future where everyone, regardless of race or background, can thrive with dignity and respect."
The Commission has a dedicated page on its website with information about the history and impact of the Act, events that will commemorate the anniversary and links to relevant resources: https://humanrights.gov.au/commemorating-50-years-racial-discrimination…
Commissioner Sivaraman will deliver the keynote address at a sold-out Whitlam Institute event at Parramatta Town Hall on Tuesday 17 June 2025 to mark the RDA's anniversary. A video recording of the event will be made available after.
