The Federal Government's refusal to sign the Optional Protocol to the United Nations Convention Against All Forms of Discrimination Against Women has denied Australian women a valuable mechanism to ensure their protection against discrimination and violence. Sexual harassment complaints constitute half the complaints under the Federal Sex Discrimination Act 1984. By signing the Optional Protocol, Australia could have extended a helping hand to many women, particularly in the Asia Pacific region. Pacific nations look to Australia for leadership, and by not signing the Optional Protocol, Australia has refused to extend a helping hand. Ms Halliday, who is also the acting Disability Discrimination Commissioner, did welcome the recent Federal Government initiative of releasing an information kit to help women with disabilities who are experiencing domestic violence.
Every woman has the right to live a life free of violence.
This is a fundamental human rights issue. Last updated 9 March 2001 . Your comments and feedback are welcome.