Where we are up to
The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) have collaborated with the Human Rights Unit within the Department of Justice and Community Safety (DJCS), to deliver a 'Charter Education Program' (CEP), which seeks to enhance the culture of human rights in the public sector. VEOHRC have also provided training to DJCS Koori Youth Justice Program staff, to provide an overview of Aboriginal rights under the Charter, including cultural rights. To date, more than 130 CEP sessions have been delivered within DJCS to more than 2,800 public sector staff. The sessions address critical knowledge of rights and obligations under the Charter, including Aboriginal rights. VEOHRC continue to work closely with partners to identify realistic scenarios to tailor the sessions to particular workplaces, frequently applying Aboriginal cultural rights where awareness remains low. As a result, training participants have an increased level of understanding of Charter rights and obligations as a result of the sessions, as well as greater confidence in applying the Charter.
Background
All public authorities have obligations under the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities. VEOHRC works with staff and leaders in justice agencies to develop confidence and capacity to apply the Charter in practice. VEOHRC achieves this by delivering tailored face to face education, which embeds awareness of human rights and obligations, and builds capacity to protect and promote human rights in every day decision making.