Acknowledging those in action
As we commemorate 50 years of the RDA, we honour the ongoing strength and leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and those in negatively racialised communities who lead anti-racism efforts across the nation.
We recommit to a future where racial equality is not just a legal standard, but a living reality for all. Let this be a moment of reflection and a catalyst for progress.
History of the RDA
The Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth) was introduced by the Prime Minister Gough Whitlam's government and passed by the Australian Parliament on 11 June 1975.
It officially came into force on 31 October 1975, championed by Attorney General Kep Enderby.
This was a major step in aligning Australia's domestic law with its international human rights obligations under the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.
Image: Attorney General Kep Enderby (left) with Prime Minister Gough Whitlam (centre) and Deputy Prime Minister Frank Crean (right).
Get involved
This anniversary offers a critical opportunity to reflect and to act. It is a chance for individuals, communities, organisations, and governments to come together and renew their commitment to racial equality and justice and create lasting change. Whether it's through attending an event or sharing a resource, be part of a legacy where we envision our nation free from all forms of racial discrimination.
The Whitlam Institute 50th Anniversary of the Racial Discrimination Act
This year marks 50 years since the introduction of one of Australia鈥檚 most powerful pieces of legislation: the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth). To commemorate this milestone, the Whitlam Institute invites you to a special community event at Parramatta Town Hall on Tuesday, 17 June 2025.
Race Discrimination Commissioner Giridharan Sivaraman will deliver the keynote address.
The event is now fully booked. You can find out more about the event on the .
Follow our social media for updates for more.
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Kep Enderby Memorial Lecture聽
This year the Kep Enderby Memorial Lecture will feature a talented line-up of panelists to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Racial Discrimination Act (1975).
As a signature event at the Commission, the Kep Enderby Memorial Lecture honours the memory of the Hon. Kep Enderby QC (1926-2015), who as Attorney-General introduced the Racial Discrimination Bill in the House of Representatives on 13 February 1975.
Find out more about the Kep Enderby Memorial Lecture.
Image: Race Discrimination Commissioner Giridharan Sivaraman at the launch of the National Anti-Racism Framework, Town Hall Parramatta, 2024.
Resources
National Anti-Racism Framework
Developed by the 黑料情报站 with dedicated funding from the Australian Government, the National Anti-Racism Framework provides a roadmap for governments, business and community organisations to address all forms of racism in Australia.
- Download the National Anti-Racism Framework [PDF, 11.88 MB]
- Download the National Anti-Racism Framework Executive Summary [PDF, 5.92 MB]
Making a complaint under the RDA
The Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth) (the RDA) makes it against the law to treat you unfairly because of your race, colour, descent, national or ethnic origin or immigrant status.
The RDA also makes racial hatred against the law.
If you are someone who is experiencing racial discrimination or racial hatred and would like to learn more about how to make a complaint, visit Complaints under the Racial Discrimination Act.
Racism@Uni
Racism@Uni is a landmark study to examine the prevalence, nature, and impact of racism in Australian universities. Current university students and staff are invited to have their say and share experiences of racism on campus or in online environments.
Find out more about Racism@Uni.
Myths and Misconceptions
The myths and misconceptions explored in this guide are common barriers to challenging our pre-existing ideas and learning more about racism. This resource will equip you with the tools to break down this barrier, learn more about race and racism and have productive conversations about combatting racism in our communities.
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The impact of the RDA
Since its enactment in 1975, the RDA has played a vital role in shaping a more just society.
It has:
Protected individuals: Thousands of people have relied on the RDA by making complaints to the Commission and initiating proceedings in courts to seek redress when facing discrimination in employment, education, health care, housing and other areas of public life. This includes protection from 鈥渋ndirect discrimination鈥, where there is a rule or policy that is the same for everyone but has an unfair effect on people of a particular race, colour, descent, national or ethnic origin .
Set legal precedents: Landmark legal cases have clarified the meaning of racial discrimination and racial hatred, promoting accountability and transparency in institutions, businesses and workplaces across Australia.
Driven public awareness: The RDA has been an important platform for promoting anti-racism education and awareness campaigns across communities.
Inspired reform: The RDA paved the way for further human rights and anti-discrimination legislation, including the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth) and Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth).
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Challenges and opportunities
While the RDA has made significant progress possible, systemic racism remains a persistent issue in Australia.
First Nations peoples, migrants, people seeking asylum and negatively racialised communities continue to experience disparities in health, education, employment, and access to justice.
Key challenges include:
Addressing systemic racism: Tackling institutional structures and policies that uphold and perpetuate inequality and discrimination.
Ensuring access to justice: Many negatively racialised people face unfair treatment and outcomes in the justice system. Others facing racial discrimination or racial hatred also still experience barriers accessing legal systems and support.
Expanding public education: Ongoing efforts are needed to combat biases, stereotypes, and misinformation.
Building inclusive institutions: Embracing a society where everyone is respected and can thrive free from discrimination must be part of our core values.