Human rights protections to be reviewed by ex-judge

QLD police
Queensland police protection notices will form part of the review. | Photo: Tim Starkey, iStock.

There will be a review of Queensland’s human rights and anti-discrimination protections that govern everyday activities like renting a home, accessing services, interacting with government agencies and resolving complaints.

Retired Supreme Court Justice Peter Flanagan has been appointed to lead the wide-ranging Queensland Government review.

The review, required by legislation, will focus on whether current laws and institutions are delivering timely, practical, and efficient outcomes for victims, families, businesses, and community organisations in Queensland.

These include uncommenced provisions of the Respect at Work Act.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Integrity Deb Frecklington said in a statement that the Department of Justice had raised serious concerns about how certain laws impacted high-risk discretionary decisions such as weapons licencing, police protection notices, and security provider licensing.

“We want Queenslanders to be able to easily understand their rights, access support when they need it, and have confidence that the system works effectively,” Ms Frecklington said.

“This review will allow us to take a holistic view of Queensland’s human rights and anti-discrimination frameworks, ensuring they are fair, effective, and fit for purpose”

Mr Flanagan is a former Queensland Supreme Court judge, serving the Trial Division, Court of Appeal, and as President of the Mental Health Court.

The review will begin on June 15 and is due to finish on March 31, 2027, with the final report to be tabled in the Legislative Assembly.