May 1, 2025 – Women’s, disability and LGBTIQ+ groups say the passing of a Bill that indefinitely delays anti-discrimination reforms in Queensland will leave thousands of people exposed to harassment and discrimination.
It also creates uncertainty for businesses and workers, who were planning on the new laws taking effect on July 1 this year.
The legislated delay was part of an amendment to a broader Crime and Corruption Bill, which was passed by Queensland parliament on Wednesday night.
The amendment indefinitely pauses the implementation of the former Labor government’s Respect at Work Act, which made it a legal requirement for businesses and government agencies to prevent discrimination before it occurs.
Equality Australia’s Brisbane-based Legal Director Heather Corkhill:
“LGBTIQ+ people will continue to face discrimination and hate without the legal protections they need because the government has paused reforms that are critical, common sense and long overdue.
“Delaying reforms to discrimination and hate speech for vulnerable communities sends a dangerous message that our rights are not a priority.
“Instead of listening to years of expert consultation, the government appears to be giving undue weight to fringe ideological voices that want to turn back the clock on equality.”
James Farrell, CEO Basic Rights Queensland:
“Delaying the implementation of these critical reforms undermines workplace protections and creates uncertainty for businesses and workers alike.
“There are clear gaps in Queensland’s legal framework that leave people exposed to harassment and discrimination.
“The government is electing to delay access to stronger protections for thousands of people across the state without a single justifiable reason. At the same time, the deferral of these laws will create unnecessary uncertainty for businesses and delays their efforts to establish safe and respectful workplaces.”
Matilda Alexander, Chief Executive Officer of Queensland Advocacy for Inclusion (QAI):
"People with disability face abuse and threats in public every day. Hate speech laws must change because no one deserves to live in fear.
"Most discrimination complaints are from people with disability, and it’s clear the law is failing those who need it most.
"The hard work is done, and the consultations are over. Every second the government delays means Queenslanders are being denied their rights.”
"These aren't theoretical policy arguments - these are lived realities for people with disability who will continue to face hate speech and discrimination under this government’s watch."
Co-Convenor of the Queensland Domestic Violence Services Network (QDVSN) and CEO of the Centre for Women & Co, Stacey:
“Safe workplaces foster safe communities, and advancing these protections is vital in creating a fairer and more just Queensland.
“Stronger anti-discrimination protections are not just a legal necessity but a moral and social imperative to ensure the dignity and safety of all Queenslanders.
"Pausing the implementation disregards an evidence-based process and the voices of those most impacted by discrimination.
“Now, more than ever, Queensland must lead with laws that ensure safety, justice and equality for all."
Media contact: Tara Ravens, 0408 898 154
