Overview
The Australian Human Rights Commission has published a decision on temporary exemption applications made by three organisations: National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women's Alliance, Thirrili Ltd, and Mary's House Services Ltd. The decision was registered on 2 September 2026 on the Federal Register of Legislation.
What are temporary exemptions under the Sex Discrimination Act 1984?
The Sex Discrimination Act 1984 allows organisations to apply for temporary permission to do something that would otherwise be considered sex discrimination - for example, restricting services or employment to women only. The Australian Human Rights Commission is the body that decides these applications.
About this decision
The decision covers applications from the following three organisations:
- National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women's Alliance
- Thirrili Ltd
- Mary's House Services Ltd
The full text of the decision, including the specific details of what exemptions were granted or refused and any conditions attached, is available on the Federal Register of Legislation at https://www.legislation.gov.au/C2026G00585.
Key actions
- Organisations that work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, or that provide domestic or family violence support, can read the full decision at https://www.legislation.gov.au/C2026G00585 to understand what exemptions apply to these three organisations.
- Organisations considering applying for a temporary exemption under the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 can contact the Australian Human Rights Commission for information on the application process.
This is a plain-English summary for information only, not legal or compliance advice. Always check the official source or consult a qualified professional.