Queensland citizens draw to the attention of the House that the legislation proposed in the Respect at Work Bill is of deep concern and contrary to international law. Article 18.4 of the ICCPR affirms the rights of parents to ensure their children are educated in the faith and morals conforming to their convictions without fear of retribution.  

The draft legislation as it stands would undermine fundamental human rights and is a threat to all faith communities in Queensland and to those who value free speech. Namely:

•  A ban on “hateful conduct” so broad that it could silence religious debate and disagreement.

•  Laws against harassment “on the basis of sex”, which could encompass simple disagreement about sexuality and gender.

•  A “positive duty” to prevent this harassment could see faith-based institutions and schools forced to teach against their beliefs.

The draft fails to respect the multicultural and democratic society we seek to uphold, where faith communities have played their part in building a harmonious State. 

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to reframe the Respect at Work Bill to permit us to worship, observe, practice, teach and operate our schools, churches, hospitals, nursing homes and other facilities in a way that conforms with our beliefs and moral convictions and leaves us free of the threat of litigation.