Equal Opportunity
Your Rights to Equal Opportunity in the NT
In the NT, everyone has the right to be treated fairly. The law protects you from discrimination, no matter your cultural background, religion, nationality or the language you speak.
As an international student, adjusting to life in Australia can be a big change. You should feel safe, welcome and included in the community.
What does equal opportunity mean?
- Equal opportunity means you have the same rights as everyone else to:
- Find employment
- Visit shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars
- Use public transport
- Enjoy public spaces like parks, beaches and streets
- Access Government or Council services
- Rent a place to live or for a holiday
- Get an education, including school and university.
If you apply for a job, rental property or a university course, you must be treated the same as other applicants. If you are treated unfairly because of race, culture, age, gender, disability, religion or sexuality, this is called discrimination and is against the law.
It is also illegal for someone to harass you by saying or doing things that are offensive, intimidating or humiliating.
Are there any exceptions?
In some cases, special programs exist to help groups who have experienced disadvantage. For example, there are programs to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in education and employment. These programs are legal because they help create fairer opportunities.
You have the right to be treated fairly. If something doesn’t feel right, reach out for support. Contact the Anti-Discrimination Commission on 1800 813 846 or antidiscrimination@nt.gov.au or the Legal Aid Helpline on 1800 019 343.