Should organisations be legally banned from turning away volunteer applicants because of age, sex, disability or other personal attributes?  How should the law protect voluntary workers from discrimination and harassment?

The federal Attorney-General is asking for community feedback on this issue as part of an initiative to consolidate Commonwealth anti-discrimination laws, which operate in addition to Victoria’s newly revised Equal Opportunity Act 2010.

Currently five separate acts of law cover discrimination at the national level – and volunteers are treated differently by each.  The consolidation initiative aims to simplify this complex picture, including creating a consistent approach to the rights of volunteers.

Volunteering Victoria is preparing a submission on discrimination and volunteers as part of the public consultation for this initiative.

You are invited to contribute to our submission and have your say on this important issue.  Send your thoughts in writing to Katherine Koesasi, Senior Manager Peak Services.

Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Deadline: Close of business Monday 23 January 2012

Visit the Attorney-General’s website to access discussion papers about the consolidation.