On Tuesday July 2, Assistant Commissioner Sharon Cowden hosted a training day for more than 70 QPS members to become Human Rights champions.
Acting Superintendent Kathleen Wedgwood, Victoria Police, Assistant Commissioner Cowden and Mr John Croker, Victoria Police
With phase one of the Human Rights Act 2019 (Qld) coming into affect on July 1, it was an opportune time for Queensland Police Service (QPS) members from various commands, groups and regions, to continue their education on Human Rights legislation.
QPS members at the presentation were fortunate to hear from a number of key stakeholders including two Victoria Police representatives who shared the experience their department had with human rights legislation.
Deputy Commissioner Neroli Holmes from the Queensland Human Rights Commission (formerly the Anti-Discrimination Commission Queensland) took the opportunity to speak about the rights contained within the Human Rights Act, and the role the QHRC will play in promoting human rights culture within Queensland, as well as conciliating human rights complaints.
Implementation of the Human Rights Act in the QPS is being overseen by a specialised project board, chaired by Assistant Commissioner Cowden, Ethical Standards Command.
An important takeaway from the day was that the legislation ultimately compliments the QPS’ values of courage, fairness and pride and that all QPS members have a part to play in explicitly ensuring human rights are a primary consideration in actions and decisions, which impact other people.
Some other key points included the fact that all Queenslanders have their rights protected under the legislation, including QPS members.
QPS members are required to put a human rights ‘lens’ over their decisions and actions.
Assistant Commissioner Cowden said the Human Rights Act was exceptionally relevant to police, who have a broad range of unique powers and responsibilities, which reflect the expectations and obligations placed upon police to protect the community.
“The Human Rights Champions will provide people with a local point of contact to discuss human rights issues relevant to a particular region or command,” Assistant Commissioner Cowden said.
“All who attended the day showed a real enthusiasm and eagerness to learn how the QPS can fully support the human rights legislation.”
The QPS looks forward to continuing to work towards the implementation of the Human Rights Act.
