COVID-19 and human rights

In times of crisis, human rights are more important than ever. In a short period of time, our lives changed dramatically. The lessons we learnt can be found below – alongside resources and information we developed during the pandemic. For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit Coronavirus Victoria.

Coronavirus Victoria

What we learnt

Snapshots: Gender equality and flexible work in the post-COVID workplace

As COVID-19 restrictions ease, workers have been clear about their desire to continue incorporating flexibility into the way they work. Our two research snapshots look at how workplaces can advance gender equality and embrace flexible work.

Snapshot: Juggling caring, parenting and work – Lessons for the post-COVID workplace

Many workers took on additional parenting and caring responsibilities throughout the pandemic, meaning that for many, they needed greater support and flexibility from their employers. This snapshot looks at how employers can better support parents and carers in the post-COVID workplace.

Snapshot: Supporting workers with disability – Lessons for the post-COVID workplace

During the pandemic, the unprecedented move to remote and flexible work has created opportunities to better understand how flexible work arrangements can support workers with disability to access and participate meaningfully in the workplace. This snapshot looks at how employers can better support workers with disability in the post-COVID workplace.

Issues as they arose

Retailers' guide: Face masks and discrimination

During the COVID-19 pandemic, retailers have had to navigate some complex issues, such as mandatory face mask rules. We've developed a guide for them to help ensure their approach to masks and vaccines is lawful under discrimination law in Victoria.

FAQs: Face masks and human rights

During Victoria's circuit-breaker lockdown, you are required to wear a fitted face mask in all indoor and outdoor settings (except private residences), unless you have a lawful exception. The requirement to wear a face mask applies to everyone aged 12 years and older.

Explainer: Protests during COVID-19

During the COVID-19 pandemic, public health orders have limited the ability of Victorians to gather together publicly to speak up on issues they care about. Here are some answers to the common questions about protest rights and the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities

Explainer: Mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations and your rights

As the COVID-19 vaccine becomes available, some employers or service providers may seek to require their staff or customers to be vaccinated. This resource answers some frequently asked questions about vaccine requirements and your rights.

COVID-19 and human rights

What we learnt

Snapshots: Gender equality and flexible work in the post-COVID workplace

Snapshot: Juggling caring, parenting and work – Lessons for the post-COVID workplace

Snapshot: Supporting workers with disability – Lessons for the post-COVID workplace

Issues as they arose

Retailers' guide: Face masks and discrimination

FAQs: Face masks and human rights

Explainer: Protests during COVID-19

Explainer: Mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations and your rights

The areas we focused on

Embedding human rights during COVID-19

Reducing racism during COVID-19

Improving workplace equality during COVID-19

Protecting human rights in closed environments during COVID-19