The question of a bill or charter of rights is integral to our national conversation about how human rights might be better protected and promoted in Australia.

As a lawyer with a keen interest in human rights and youth issues, it has always struck me as strange that many Australians, whilst familiar with America's Bill of Rights, understand little about how human rights are protected and promoted in our own backyard. Many seem to be under the impression that Australia has our own Bill of Rights. We don't.

The question of an Australian bill or charter of rights has certainly been a hot topic during the National Human Rights Consultation. It is consistently raised both at our consultations and in people's submissions. It has also inspired great debate in the political arena as well as in the media.

Public feedback tells us loud and clear that the question of a bill or charter of rights is integral to our national conversation about how human rights might be better protected and promoted in Australia.

The Committee's Terms of Reference include that "The options identified should preserve the sovereignty of the Parliament and not include a constitutionally entrenched bill of rights".

There has been some confusion as to just exactly what this means. I would like to emphasise that the Committee welcomes all views on all aspects of the human rights bill or charter debate.