Story perspectives

Court Rules Rainbow HR Commission Appointment Unlawful

6/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

A December High Court ruling found Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith’s appointment of Dr Stephen Rainbow as chief commissioner of the Human Rights Commission unlawful.
Goldsmith announced that Kristy McDonald KC will investigate concerns about Rainbow’s conduct and said he will not comment further.
Labour and the Greens criticised the appointment for Rainbow’s pro-Israel stance and past “trans agenda” remarks.
Rainbow affirmed his commitment to protecting trans rights.

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Story summary

A December High Court ruling found Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith’s appointment of Dr Stephen Rainbow as chief commissioner of the Human Rights Commission unlawful.
Goldsmith announced that Kristy McDonald KC will investigate concerns about Rainbow’s conduct and said he will not comment further.
Labour and the Greens criticised the appointment for Rainbow’s pro-Israel stance and past “trans agenda” remarks.
Rainbow affirmed his commitment to protecting trans rights.