Friday 6 March 2026
This week, the Human Rights As We Age Network released a joint statement endorsed by over 20 organisations and individual advocates.
Formed in 2025, the Network is a coalition of key civil society organisations and individuals committed to working collaboratively to advance the human rights of older persons in Australia and internationally.
The statement: ‘Advancing the human rights of older persons in Australia: a national Human Rights Act for older persons in Australia’ calls for the introduction of a national Human Rights Act (HRA) as a key mechanism to advance and protect the rights of older persons in Australia.
Robert Fitzgerald AM, Network Co-Chair and Age Discrimination Commissioner:
“This statement is an invitation for all Australians to consider how human rights shape our daily lives. The Government should view this collective action as a clear indication of the broad support among older people and advocates for a national Human Rights Act.”
Sue Hendy, Network Co-Chair and Director of the International Federation on Ageing:
“Human rights do not diminish as we age. This statement reflects the diverse views and lived experiences of older people and their representative organisations. Older persons in Australia want to be seen, heard and respected no matter their age. A national Human Rights Act is necessary to protect our rights and ensure accountability when these rights are breached.”
The Statement also highlights the importance of the Australian Government supporting the development of a binding international convention on the rights of older persons, recognising the global momentum to strengthen age-related human rights protections.
Read the joint statement and full list of signatories: Advancing the human rights of older persons in Australia: a national Human Rights Act for older persons in Australia — here.
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