Federal Labor Faces Criticism Over Inaction on Anti-Racism Framework

Federal Labor has been criticized for its slow response to a national anti-racism strategy, nearly 18 months after receiving recommendations from the Australian Human Rights Commission. Documents released to the Senate reveal that no significant progress has been made on the strategy, which was published in November 2024. Race Discrimination Commissioner Giridharan Sivaraman has repeatedly urged the government to adopt the proposed framework, sending five letters and attending at least two meetings with Attorney General Michelle Rowland. In these communications, Sivaraman emphasized the urgency of addressing systemic racism, particularly in light of recent anti-immigration rallies targeting the Indian community.

The Guardian

The anti-racism framework includes 63 recommendations aimed at combating racial hatred, such as establishing a national anti-racism taskforce, creating a standalone Human Rights Act, and implementing a positive duty to eliminate racism across various sectors, including employment, health, and housing. Despite these recommendations, Rowland has responded that they are still "being carefully considered," a sentiment echoed in her communications over the past year.

The Guardian

The Labor government has defended its approach to tackling racism, citing the forthcoming royal commission into antisemitism as a significant step. This commission is expected to deliver its findings in December 2026. However, critics argue that the government is merely delaying action on the anti-racism framework while commissioning reports without implementing necessary changes.

The Guardian

Frustration within Labor is evident, with some members, including former cabinet minister Ed Husic, publicly expressing the need for a formal response to the anti-racism framework. Husic stated, “We have an issue with racism in this country,” emphasizing the importance of addressing the framework. Other Labor MPs have privately voiced similar concerns, suggesting that the commissioner deserves a response and questioning the royal commission's ability to address racism comprehensively.

The Guardian

Islamic and Jewish organizations have also called on the Labor government to take action on the framework. Imam Shadi Alsuleiman, president of the Australian National Imams Council, stressed the need for implementation, while Dr. Rateb Jneid, president of the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils, criticized the government for not formally responding to the framework amid rising Islamophobia. Bart Shteinman, executive officer of the Jewish Council of Australia, described the framework as the most comprehensive approach to tackling antisemitism and racism, urging the royal commission to endorse it.

The Guardian

As the royal commission approaches, the lack of a formal response to the anti-racism framework raises concerns about the government's commitment to addressing systemic racism in Australia. With increasing pressure from various community leaders and internal party members, the Labor government faces a critical juncture in its approach to racial equality and social cohesion.

The Guardian