The South West Aboriginal Land and Sea Council (SWALSC) has lodged a formal complaint with the Australian Human Rights Commission concerning reported public comments made by Senator Pauline Hanson about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
SWALSC has taken this action in its own capacity as a representative organisation for its Noongar members and on behalf of all Noongar people.
The complaint asks the Commission to consider the reported comments under the racial hatred provisions of the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth), including section 18C.
SWALSC acknowledges Senator Hanson’s subsequent expression of regret and conditional apology. However, SWALSC considers that her response does not withdraw the substance of the reported remarks or provide the unreserved acknowledgement and apology sought through the complaint.
SWALSC also acknowledges that Kurin Minang human rights expert Dr Hannah McGlade has separately lodged a complaint concerning the reported comments. SWALSC’s complaint has been lodged independently and reflects its responsibility to represent and advocate for its Noongar members.
SWALSC CEO Vanessa Kickett said the complaint was not about preventing political debate.
“Political disagreement is part of a healthy democracy. Degrading an entire people is not.
“Noongar culture is living culture. Our history, knowledge, languages, connection to boodja and responsibilities to Country have been carried from generation to generation and continue today.
“Our young people should grow up knowing that their culture, identity and connection to Country are sources of strength and pride.”
Through the complaint, SWALSC is seeking an acknowledgement of the harm caused, an unreserved public apology to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, an assurance that comparable racially degrading statements will not be repeated, and consideration of appropriate educative or systemic measures.
SWALSC will respect the Australian Human Rights Commission’s independent complaints process and will provide further information to the Commission as required.