Kate and her friends are denied entry to a local hotel
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The incidents portrayed in this story are inspired by real complaints received by the Commission, but all names and other identifying details have been changed. The photo above is a stock photo, posed by a model.
‘My friends and I were having a laugh as we got to the front door. The security guard glared at us and said there was no way we were coming in tonight as Aboriginal people had a fight here last week.’
Kate is Aboriginal and went to the local hotel to have a meal and drinks on Saturday night with friends.
They were denied entry to the hotel by security on the front door as ‘Aboriginal people had a fight here last week’.
How does the law apply to Kate’s situation?
Under Victoria’s Equal Opportunity Act it is against the law to discriminate against someone because of their race. Providers of goods and services, including restaurants, must not discriminate on the basis of race and have a positive duty to take reasonable steps to eliminate discrimination as far as possible.
Kate could make a complaint of race discrimination against the hotel.
Are you in a similar situation?
You can start by contacting us with your enquiry or complaint – we will then take you through your rights and options.
We can listen to your story and provide you with information about your rights under our laws.
We have staff specifically trained to support Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people make enquiries and complaints.
When you contact us, we will ask if you identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander so that we can provide you an inclusive and culturally appropriate service.
You can also choose to speak directly to an Aboriginal staff member.
You can contact us by:
- Phone: 1300 292 153 – weekdays from 9 am – 4 pm
- Email: Send us an email with your issue and whether you would like to speak with an Aboriginal staff member
- Online chat: Available weekdays from 10 am – 4 pm
- Online complaint form
- Letter: VEOHRC, Level 3, 204 Lygon Street Carlton Victoria 3053
This is our tailored approach for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Victorians. Read more about these services.
