Religious freedom vital to Aust: inquiry

The federal and state governments should work closely to align laws with two key international agreements on freedom of belief and religion, a report says.

A parliamentary inquiry has kicked the idea of a bill of rights down the road, but suggested in the short-term ensuring all Australian laws align with international pacts on freedom of religion or belief.

A second interim report was tabled in parliament on Thursday by the human rights sub-committee.

The inquiry found while Australians generally enjoy freedom of religion and relief, there is little formal protection to this right.

"The right of individuals to believe in, and a society's tolerance towards, differing religions or beliefs is a fundamental component of any healthy democracy," committee chair and Liberal MP Kevin Andrews said.

The report recommends Australian law be reformed to fully align with Articles 18 of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights and the International Covenant on Political and Civil Rights.


Share

1 min read

Published

Source: AAP



Share this with family and friends


Get SBS News daily and direct to your Inbox

Sign up now for the latest news from Australia and around the world direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Follow SBS News

Download our apps

Listen to our podcasts

Get the latest with our News podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS

SBS World News

Take a global view with Australia's most comprehensive world news service

Watch now

Watch the latest news videos from Australia and across the world