Laws against discrimination

Discrimination is when someone treats you badly because you are different.

It could be because of:

• your gender
• your disability
• your sexuality
• the government you support
• your religion
• your race or skin colour.

Australia has 4 laws that protect you from discrimination.

Age Discrimination Act 2004

This Act says it is against the law for someone to discriminate against you because of your age.

Disability Discrimination Act 1992

This Act says it is against the law for someone to discriminate against you because of your disability.

Sex Discrimination Act 1984

This Act says it is against the law for someone to discriminate against you because of your:

• gender
• sexuality
• family responsibilities

Racial Discrimination Act 1975

This Act says it is against the law for someone to discriminate against you because of:

• your skin colour
• your race
• where you come from.

Learn more about the laws against discrimination at the Australian Human Rights Commission website

You can also download the:

• Australian Human Rights Commission: Disability Discrimination Act 1992 – Easy Read Guide
• WWDA Easy English: Your Rights Toolkit