Human Rights Act 2019

The Human Rights Act 2019 protects 23 human rights and requires public entities (i.e. council) to uphold these rights when they make decisions, create laws, setting policies and providing services.

The main objects of the Act are to:

  • protect and promote human rights;
  • help build a culture in the Queensland public sector that respects and promotes human rights; and
  • help promote a dialogue about the nature, meaning and scope of human rights.

The Act complements other legislation regulating the relationship between individuals and the state, including:

  • Anti-Discrimination Act 1991
  • Judicial Review Act 1991
  • Ombudsman Act 2001
  • Crime and Corruption Act 2001
  • Right to Information Act 2009
  • Information Privacy Act 2009

Complaints process

 An individual can make a complaint if a public entity acts or makes decisions inconsistently with the Human Rights Act.

How to make a complaint

Complaints can be made direct to council. The complaint should be made in writing and include the following details:

  • Your name and contact details
  • Which human right is affected
  • Details of the unfair treatment, including who, what, where and when it happened
  • Details of the person or Council program you are complaining about
  • Provide copies of any evidence if applicable.

Complaints may be made by:

  • Completing Council's Complaint Lodgement Form, which can be accessed and lodged via the council's website.
  • In writing to:
    Chief Executive Officer
    Mackay Regional Council
    PO Box 41
    MACKAY QLD 4740
Escalating a complaint

If you do not receive a response, or the response is inadequate, after 45 business days you may escalate your complaint to the Human Rights Commission.

  • The Commission may refuse to deal with complaints not made within one year of the public entity’s decision or action, unless there are exceptional circumstances.
  • Complaints can also be accepted by the Commission within the 45 business day period if the Commissioner considers there are exceptional circumstances.
  • Complaints can only be made regarding acts or decisions occurring on or after January 1, 2020.
Further information

For more information about your rights or how to make a complaint that falls under the Human Rights Act 2019 click here.

 

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