Function 3: The Commissioner may make recommendations to the Minister as to reforms, whether of a legislative nature or otherwise, that the Commissioner believes will further the objects of this Act.
During 2022-23 the Commissioner made recommendations to the Attorney-General regarding reforms to further the objects of the Act.
Modernising the Equal Opportunity Act 1984
| Suggested that a review of occur of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 to ensure it is modernised and fit for purpose. |
During 2022-23 the Commissioner provided feedback to the Attorney-General on proposed legislative amendments.
Review of Fair Work Act 1994 (SA)
| Feedback on the existing law and potential reforms, including expanding the protections against discrimination under the Fair Work Act 1994 and its application to the Equal Opportunity Act 1984. |
Proposed amendments to introduce Domestic Abuse as a protected attribute | Feedback provided regarding the proposal to introduce a domestic abuse as a new ground for discrimination in Part 5B of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984. |
Prohibition of conversion practices | Feedback on proposal to include a civil response mechanism in the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 to enable the Commissioner to resolve disputes. |
In addition to responses to the Attorney-General, during the 2022-23 financial year Equal Opportunity SA was also consulted on legislative reform through other parties, including:
- The Hon. Irene Pnevmatikos MLC, Presiding Member of the Legislative Review Committee, regarding Local Government Land By-laws for public conveniences.
- The Select Committee of the South Australian Legislative Council to inquire into and report on the prohibition of Neo-Nazi symbols.
- The Department of Employment and Workplace Relations regarding proposed amendments to the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) to provide stronger protections against discrimination.
- The Australian Law Reform Commission regarding religious educational institutions and anti-discrimination laws.