The Queensland government is facing criticism for an indefinite delay in implementing anti-discrimination law reforms aimed at protecting victims of domestic violence, homeless individuals, women at work, and others. State Attorney General, Deb Frecklington, announced legislation to postpone the enforcement of the Respect at Work and Other Matters Amendment Act 2024. This act is the most significant reform to the state’s anti-discrimination laws since 1991 and includes a positive duty on employers to prevent workplace discrimination and protection for additional groups, including homeless people and those with irrelevant criminal records. The delay was justified by Frecklington as providing sufficient time for consultation, citing concerns over the burden the legislation could impose on organizations and institutions. However, this stance has been criticized by advocacy groups, including Queensland’s Human Rights Commission, which argued that there has been extensive consultation and support for the changes. The commission, along with other supporters, argued that the delay disproportionately responds to one aspect of the reforms without previous objections and misrepresents the process as rushed. Advocates for workers, individuals with disabilities, and members of the LGBTIQ+ community expressed disappointment, emphasizing the need for immediate action to address ongoing discrimination.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/law/2025/mar/14/lnp-anti-discrimination-law-reform-delay-ntwnfb