The Northern Territory AIDS and Hepatitis Council (NTAHC) and the Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations (AFAO) congratulates the Northern Territory Government on passing these important amendments to the Anti-Discrimination Act.

The extensive consultation process has meant that the reform is reflective of community need and builds on legislative objectives that support equality of opportunity for everyone.

This reform is extremely significant and aligns with human rights principles to ensure that across every part of the Act, Northern Territorians are protected. Through the inclusion of HIV/hepatitis status and sex work as protected attributes and protections for LGBTI Territorians working for religious institutions we can finally begin to address the impacts of systemic stigma and discrimination.

NTAHC Executive Director, Genevieve Dally states ‘this is an important step forward in addressing stigma and discrimination experienced by marginalised Territorians. This legislation can set a powerful precedent that is able to be replicated across the country.’

NTAHC and AFAO are united with other key stakeholders including the National Association of People Living with HIV (NAPWHA), NTPLHIV group, Hepatitis Australia, Scarlet Alliance Australian Sex Workers Association, SWOP NT, the Sex Worker Reference Group, Rainbow Territory and Unions NT in our support of these progressive legislative reforms. We acknowledge the significance of the work undertaken by our Labor Government to see these important protections enshrined in law.

Congratulations.