In South Australian law, the definition is restricted. For example, in SA, direct discrimination happens when someone is treated less favourably because of their sex, race, physical or in tellectual disability, sexuality, age, marital status or pregnancy. In South Australia it is unlawful for a school or educational institution to discriminate on the grounds covered in the Act. This applies to entry to a course, access to facilities or benefits, or to expulsion. Applies to full or part-time work, contract, casual or unpaid work.
Equal opportunity is a positive way of describing the absence of discrimination.
People are provided with equal opportunity if they are not discriminated against because of irrelevant characteristics. Equal opportunity laws oblige people not to do certa in acts, and provide a remedy for individuals when the unlawful acts are done. The Equal Opportunity Tribunal is quite separate from the Equal Opportunity Commission. It will decide in favour of either the complainant or the respondent. Its hearings are open to the public.