KLC conducted a research project into the experiences of vulnerable people who make complaints about discrimination under NSW and Commonwealth law. KLC’s research showed that vulnerable people encounter numerous barriers when they try to resolve their discrimination complaints through alternative dispute resolution processes. The report focuses on vulnerable applicants’ experiences of discrimination conciliations at the Anti-Discrimination Board of NSW (ADB), Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) and the Fair Work Commission (FWC).
Our key research questions were:
- What practices and trends inhibit the full participation of vulnerable applicants at conciliations in discrimination matters?
- What does or would best practice in conciliations for vulnerable applicants look like?
Our report contains 10 recommendations for best practice to ensure that dispute resolution processes are inclusive and fair. Key recommendations include adjustments to conciliation processes and increased government funding for legal assistance services so that vulnerable individuals are not overpowered or intimidated during conciliation. We also recommend increased funding for the ADB, AHRC, FWC and Fair Work Ombudsman to address systemic discrimination.
Read the Having My Voice Heard report