The Inclusion of Caste in Australia’s Anti-Racism Framework: Progress, Challenges, and Future Directions

Abstract

Recent developments in Australia have seen a significant step forward in addressing caste discrimination, with the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) including caste-based oppression in its National Anti-Racism Framework 2024. This landmark initiative places caste alongside other forms of racial discrimination and seeks to embed protections across various areas of law. The framework advocates for reforms to existing anti-discrimination legislation, alongside recommendations for broader protections to address intersecting forms of discrimination, including caste and faith-based issues. It also calls for further exploration of a national Human Rights Act to improve legal safeguards and access to redress for those experiencing discrimination. This paper explores the persistence of caste discrimination within the South Asian Australian diaspora, drawing on first-hand interviews with seven Dalit Australians and two experts on caste and human rights. It examines how caste-based exclusion continues to manifest in everyday social, professional, and educational interactions, where subtle forms of discrimination limit opportunities and marginalise Dalit individuals. Participants’ accounts highlight how caste identity affects access to social networks, professional advancement, and educational opportunities, demonstrating the entrenched nature of casteism in diaspora contexts. By reflecting on the AHRC’s approach and the recommendations outlined in the National Anti-Racism Framework, the paper contributes to ongoing discussions about caste as a form of intersectional discrimination within Australia. It calls for continued advocacy, policy reforms, and legal recognition to address caste discrimination alongside larger efforts to create a more inclusive society.