Do we have the right to freedom of speech in Australia?
Australia does not have an explicit First Amendment equivalent enshrining the protection of freedom of speech in our Constitution.
Freedom of information, opinion and expression
Everyone shall have the right to freedom of expression; this right shall include freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, regardless of frontiers, either orally, in writing or in print, in the form of art, or through any other media of his choice.
Right to freedom of opinion and expression
The right to freedom of opinion is the right to hold opinions without interference, and cannot be subject to any exception or restriction.
The right to freedom of expression extends to any medium, including written and oral communications, the media, public protest, broadcasting, artistic works and commercial advertising.
Freedom of thought, conscience and religion or belief
Everyone shall have the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion. This right shall include freedom to have or to adopt a religion or belief of his choice, and freedom, either individually or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in worship, observance, practice and teaching.
What does freedom of religion mean in Australia?
Australia has been a secular country since Federation in 1901. It means that the State and Church are separate, and as such, the government can’t interfere with the exercise of religion.
Australia's Efforts to Promote and Protect Freedom of Religion and Belief
The respect for humanity and sense of ethics that underpin human rights are often said to derive from religious belief. Certainly, the major religions of the world emphasise our common humanity and the dignity and equality of individuals. While respect for fellow human beingsthe foundation of toleranceis a principle of the world's major religions, and most states proclaim their respect for religious differences, there is evidence of persistent and increasing religious intolerance. This appears to coincide with increasing religious revival.