This legislation establishes a comprehensive framework to prohibit racial discrimination and related acts across Australia. Its primary purpose is to ensure equality before the law and protect human rights for all individuals, irrespective of their race, colour, descent, or national or ethnic origin. The law makes it unlawful to engage in acts of distinction, exclusion, or restriction that nullify or impair human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Specifically, it prohibits discrimination in various aspects of public life, including access to places, land, goods, and services, as well as in employment and trade unions. The legislation also outlaws discriminatory advertisements, incitement to unlawful acts, and offensive public behaviour motivated by racial hatred. It includes provisions for vicarious liability, holding employers accountable for discriminatory actions by their employees or agents. Furthermore, the framework promotes understanding, tolerance, and friendship among diverse groups through educational initiatives and research, while providing for the administration of its provisions.