Social justice is based on the concepts of human rights and equality (equal rights and equal opportunity for all) and can be defined as the way in which human rights are attained and protected.

Yarra City Council's Social Justice Charter [ PDF, 623.3 KB] was developed to ensure the principles of social justice are embedded in all of Council's planning processes, policies, strategies and services.

It is a key Council document that reflects our values and helps guide us in a human rights-based approach to policy development.

The Charter's guiding principles were developed after consultation with the City of Yarra community, stakeholders and Council staff. The principles include:

• access - making sure our services, facilities, and programs are accessible and can used by everyone
• equity - ensuring everyone is treated equally and has access to the same resources
• rights - protecting our community's human rights
• participation - making sure everyone's voice is heard

The Charter is for everyone as it protects the whole community's human rights.

It is especially important for vulnerable residents, or people more likely to be at risk of discrimination such as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, LGBTIQ+ people, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and people experiencing homelessness.

For more information on the Yarra Social Justice Charter, please contact us.