Thanks for sharing your thoughts on our draft Social Justice Charter. We used your feedback to finalise the document.
Read our Social Justice charter and find out more on our website.
A bit about the project
We've developed a Social Justice Charter to outline how we can uphold social justice and protect human rights in our community.
As a council, we have an important (and legally required) role to play in upholding and protecting our community's human rights. This Charter helps us shape our commitment to making sure all residents can participate in our community and access services and information.
So what do we mean by human rights and social justice?
- Human rights are based on dignity, equality and mutual respect – regardless of nationality, religion or beliefs.
- Social Justice is the way in which human rights are attained and protected.
What is a charter?
- A charter refers to a written document outlining the rights and obligations of an organisation. Simply put, the Social Justice Charter acts as an umbrella document for all future plans, policies and frameworks.
We are signatories to a number of international Human Rights treaties which drives our strong commitment to achieving social justice. We are bound by the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006 (Vic) to act compatibly with human rights, and to consider human rights when developing policies, making laws, delivering services and making decisions.
Tell us what you think
Read more about the priorities of the draft charter, and tell us what you think by taking the survey below.
Feedback is due by Friday 31 January 2020.
Our charter is shaped by 4 guiding principles
- Advisory groups and consultative committees which reflect our diverse community.
- Accessible communications (i.e. print, audio, simple English, translations etc), including using a diversity of communication channels.
- Ensure venues and transport are accessible.
- Induction and employee training programs highlight social justice charter.
- Use of public spaces (eg. footpaths, parks etc) need to be equitable for all to use facilities.
- Community grants available and allocated to a diverse representation of our community.
- Education on human rights for staff, including obligations and requirements.
- Develop information / scripts which challenge intolerant attitudes, nurturing more compassion and empathy.
- Council engages in advocacy programs within the community, “standing up” for vulnerable groups.
- Partnering with diverse groups to help plan and execute programs and initiatives, especially those involving diverse groups.
- Facilitating community members to influence Council strategies and policies.
- Develop understanding of who all the relevant groups are, listen to the “unheard” voices, to bring different perspectives to the table.
