The long-awaited second draft of the Australian Religious Discrimination Bill was released on December 11 after the first in August received almost unanimous pushback.
“The draft is certainly an improvement,” said Monica Doumit, director of public affairs and engagement for the Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney.
“It closes a gap that exists in some states, where discrimination because of religious belief or activity is not covered,” she said.
“For example, currently, in NSW or South Australia I could walk in a shop and not be served because I am a Catholic” and there would be no protection in law.
