Parents choose faith-based schools, expecting that all staff will uphold their faith’s values

A bill which would have restricted the right of religious bodies to hire staff with consistent beliefs was defeated in the Victorian Parliament yesterday.

The Equal Opportunity Amendment (Religious Exceptions) Bill failed to pass after a 19 all tied vote in the upper house.

Please attribute the following statement to FamilyVoice State Director Peter Stevens:

“The Victorian Parliament has made the right decision in rejecting this appalling crackdown on religious freedom.

“It is only fair that faith-based organisations be able to hire staff with consistent beliefs and values.

“Freedom of religion is a fundamental human right which must be respected by government.

“The move smacked of hypocrisy.  Would Premier Daniel Andrews employ a member of the Liberals or One Nation as one of his key advisors?  Faith-based organisations should enjoy the same freedom to employ people with a consistent ethos."