1. Introduction: Towards a revitalised Human Rights Framework for Australia The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission has identified the benefits of a human rights culture as set out in Table 1.1 Table 1: Benefits of a human rights culture in Victoria Benefits of a human rights culture for government • Builds relationship with the community • Identifies problem areas • Improves democratic legitimacy by demonstrating to the Victorian community a genuine commitment to human rights • Connects Victoria with international efforts to translate human rights goals and standards into results for the people of Victoria • Reinforces other work, for example safety, equality, multiculturalism. Benefits of a human rights culture for community members • Assists government to make decisions that consider rights • Establishes clear non-negotiable standards • Strengthens cases where change is needed • Empowers individuals • Contributes to a fairer and more inclusive society • Encourages community participation in decision-making. Benefits of a human rights culture for public authorities • Improves quality of service design, in particular for the most marginalised, excluded and disadvantaged in our community • Improves decision-making by providing a framework to identify, assess and balance human rights against other rights and interests • Helps manage organisational risks, such as litigation • Builds reputation and credibility • Creates a framework for solving problems • Provides a protective mechanism to engage compliance and adherence to human rights laws. Benefits of a human rights culture for public servants • Inspires staff • Reconnects staff with core public service values • Gives staff a framework to act with a moral compass when dealing with people. FREE & EQUAL: Revitalising Australia’s Commitment to Human Rights 17