They are ours to be enjoyed simply by reason of our common humanity and innate dignity as human beings. For that reason we cannot agree to give them up and they cannot be taken away from us. They are not the preserve of minority groups. They are not privileges only for majorities. They are for everyone.
Human rights transcend all borders, cultures and notions of difference.
When it entered into international agreements about human rights, Australia made solemn commitments to all its people to respect individual human rights and fundamental freedoms and to ensure that everyone in the jurisdiction can exercise these rights. If an individual's right is breached or his or her freedom is violated, Australia has promised to provide an effective remedy. This obligation operates regardless of who the violator is, even when it is the government itself. Human rights also imposes obligations or responsibilities on everyone. All human rights must be exercised in ways which do not impinge on the rights and freedoms of others.