The Australian Human Rights Commission recently released a report titled ‘Collateral Damage’ investigating the impact of Australia’s COVID-19 pandemic response on its citizens. The report aimed to shed light on the human rights implications of the government’s actions during the crisis and to provide insights for future emergency planning.
The report’s findings were the result of extensive research conducted between 2024 and 2025, involving surveys, story submissions, and stakeholder interviews with over 5,000 Australians. It highlighted the need for a human rights-centered approach in emergency responses to ensure fairness, effectiveness, and compassion.
COVID-19 was declared a human biosecurity emergency in Australia in March 2020, prompting various measures like border closures, lockdowns, and school shutdowns. While these actions were crucial in curbing the virus spread, the report revealed that many felt neglected or marginalized due to rigid policies that failed to consider individual circumstances.
Throughout the pandemic, certain groups faced disproportionate challenges, such as barriers to essential services for First Nations communities, migrants, and people with disabilities. The report also pointed out failures in compassionate exemption pathways, impacting individuals’ ability to visit loved ones in critical situations.
To address these issues, the report proposed the adoption of an Emergency Response Framework with seven guiding principles. These include prioritizing human rights in decision-making, consulting with all communities, ensuring proportionate responses, and empowering local communities for effective planning.
Commissioner Finlay, along with her team, engaged with thousands of Australians to gather insights on the pandemic’s impact. The report emphasized the importance of learning from past experiences to better protect human rights in future emergencies.
As Australia reflects on its COVID-19 response, the report serves as a reminder of the significance of upholding human rights during crises. It calls for a more inclusive and adaptable approach to emergency planning, considering the diverse needs of all individuals and communities.
By prioritizing human rights and fostering collaboration across different sectors, Australia can build a more resilient and compassionate emergency response system, ensuring that no one is left behind in times of crisis.
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