Independent's concerned about anti-discrimination bill

It appears the cacophony of public criticism against the gov's proposed anti-discrimination bill has gained the attention of two Independent MP's who hold the balance of power in the lower house. 

The federal government's embattled anti-discrimination legislation is now facing scepticism from crossbench MPs.

While both are reserving their position, independents Andrew Wilkie and Tony Windsor have picked up on the attacks being made against the controversial draft legislation.

Mr Wilkie said the legislation ''has attracted a remarkable amount of criticism from a very broad range of people and organisations''.

''Going by the criticism to date, I assume the bill will be significantly amended or dropped altogether,'' he said, adding that he would wait for the final version before adopting a firm position.

Mr Windsor said he had some concerns about what was being proposed, and had mentioned the issue to Prime Minister Julia Gillard. Read more

I may be wrong, but I have a feeling that Australians have been shocked to find out just how extensive these existing laws are that make it OK for churches to discriminate against somebody in a way that would be completely illegal for the rest of the community. I didn't know that at all. If someone had of asked me if a church could fire you because of your sexuality I'd have said no. I'd guess the discussion about it all has been very surprising for a big part of the population.

If it's put in the new legislation and enshrined in law federally, the consequences will be far reaching, not just for gay people but for all people on a church hit list who don't measure up. This gives an indication of the level of absurdity.

Dear Prime Minister, 

Senator Penny Wong is one of Australia’s strongest Finance Ministers, yet under the proposed federal anti-discrimination bill, she could be fired from a tuck-shop in a religiously affiliated school. Despite being Prime Minister, as a declared atheist, a school could ban you from providing leadership training to young girls. 

A church-run hospital in an isolated indigenous community could reject the expert knowledge of former AMA President Prof. Kerryn Phelps. 

Not only does discrimination directly affect those discriminated against, it affects entire communities. Religiously affiliated service providers are able to deny a community the best possible teachers, doctors, nurses, and counsellors, on grounds totally unrelated to to their ability to perform the job. 

As I am sure you have, my office has recently been inundated with stories of discrimination. One teacher told me she was fired in case her “gayness” infected students and patients in regional hospitals have told me they are nervous about seeking sexual health advice for fear of being thrown out. more

Anyway, without the support of the opposition and the independents, the gov has to rely on the Greens to get it through and I can't see that happening at all. Understandably, this thing's starting to look rather dead in the water right now.