Australia’s leading civil society groups are urging the Federal Government to take decisive action to implement the National Anti-Racism Framework, marking one year since its release by the Australian Human Rights Commission.

Launched in 2024 after national community consultations, the Framework presents 63 key recommendations aimed at tackling racism across Australian institutions — from law and justice to education, healthcare, media, and the arts. The Commission described the Framework as a roadmap for building a fairer and more inclusive nation where racial equality is part of everyday life.

More than 50 community organizations have united to call on the government to fund and roll out the Framework, warning that racism remains deeply embedded within Australian systems and structures. They stress that meaningful change requires sustained commitment and collaboration with affected communities.

The groups say the first anniversary should serve as a reminder that words are not enough without action. With rising incidents of antisemitism, Islamophobia, anti-Palestinian hostility, and anti-migration sentiment, advocates warn that deepening divisions threaten Australia’s social cohesion and multicultural harmony.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, they note, continue to bear the brunt of systemic racism — an issue magnified in the year following the referendum. The joint statement emphasizes that true equality cannot be achieved without justice and respect for First Nations peoples.

Among the coalition’s key proposals are formal endorsement of the National Anti-Racism Framework and the establishment of a National Anti-Racism Taskforce to guide its implementation. This body would monitor progress, support policy reforms, and ensure targeted action across communities most affected by racial discrimination.

The joint call is led by organizations including the Australian Council of Social Service, the Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia, the Community Council for Australia, the Refugee Council of Australia, the Settlement Council of Australia, and Settlement Services International. They are supported by dozens of multicultural and faith-based organizations across the nation.

Their collective message to government is clear: turn commitment into concrete progress, and make equality, dignity, and justice a lived reality for every Australian.