The Government needs to listen closely to concerns raised by Australian human rights organisations when it comes to strengthening equality laws, the Australian Greens said.

“Submissions to the Federal Attorney-General’s department regarding its proposed consolidation of anti-discrimination laws closed yesterday, so today is when the work really needs to start,” Greens legal spokesperson, Senator Penny Wright, said.

“Unfortunately, discrimination remains pervasive in Australia today.

“Discrimination can be extremely debilitating. It often means that people are excluded from accessing essential social and economic activities that enable them to participate fully in society.

“If the government is serious about creating a more inclusive and fairer Australia it must effectively address discrimination and inequality in our community. An essential starting point is strengthening our equality laws.

“Strengthening equality laws to ensure better consistency in the law and increased protection against discrimination must be a priority for the government this year.”