“We affirm the inherent and inalienable right of all people to live free of persecution and violence, with access to all that is necessary for a decent life.”

Dignity in Humanity: A Uniting Church in Australia Statement on Human Rights, Uniting Church in Australia, 2006

This website is an initiative of the Social Justice Unit of the Uniting Church, Western Australia. It provides a range of information and resources to Western Australian UCA congregations, church members and others who are concerned about human rights.

After all, caring for our neighbour is a key Christian task.

Our social justice work is based upon our values and faith, and leads us into advocacy for many areas where human rights are under threat including:

• the rights of prisoners
• the rights of marginalised groups
• the victims of human trafficking

‘The Uniting Church in Australia has articulated a strong stance on the protection of human rights since its inception in 1977, including an affirmation of the importance of every human being and the rights of each citizen to personal dignity.’ Statement to the Nation, Uniting Church in Australia, 1 July 1977

In response to the Christian call to stand with people who are marginalised, poor and oppressed we have a responsibility to contribute to the building of societies in which all people are valued and respected. The Uniting Church seeks for each person to have conditions that enable them to thrive and to reach their full potential.

In the context of public policy and international humanitarian affairs, we can contribute by supporting the development of policy and legislation which upholds the rights of all people to participate in the community and public life, be treated with respect and accorded dignity without discrimination.

Support for an instrument that seeks to implement Australia’s international human rights commitments and protect human rights in Australia is entirely consistent with the Uniting Church’s strong commitment to human rights. The Uniting Church in Australia believes that one key avenue for the protection of human rights in Australia is the implementation of an Australian Human Rights Act.

To find out more about the Uniting Church’s support for Human Rights, and the Social Justice Commission’s broader vision, visit these websites;

• Ecochurches WA
• Justice for Refugees

Our Vision for a Just Australia

“Our Vision for a Just Australia” is an Assembly statement, created in collaboration by those working in the area of justice in the Uniting Church. The statement expresses our hopes for Australia to be a nation that is just, compassionate, inclusive and courageous. The statement articulates the hopes and vision of the UCA in seven foundational areas and outlines key actions that should be taken by governments and the wider community to bring about communities of justice and flourishing in Australia and beyond. Click on the link below to go to the Uniting Church Assembly page where you will find the full vision statement.