Federal government proposes new anti-discrimination legislation which aims to streamline Australia’s anti-discrimination laws. The changes have been generally welcomed by consumer groups representing older people.

Ian Yates, CEO of COTA Australia, said the changes represented a significant step forward in advancing the rights of older Australians.

“This decision will have the positive affect of strengthening action against age discrimination,” said Mr Yates. It also means better protection for those in aged care.

“For older Australians, this higher benchmark will mean that protections against age discrimination will be tougher and more easily tackled. This is positive step forward that will help create a better Australia for people of all ages,” Mr Yates said.

Michael O’Neill of National Seniors also welcomed the proposed changes.

He hopes that the draft legislative changes will strengthen Australia’s weak age discrimination laws, and make it easier for older Australians to prove discriminatory treatment in the courts.

“Recent National Seniors research reveals that workplace age discrimination amongst the over 50s is alive and well but notoriously difficult to prove,” O’Neill said.

“Many employers associate older age with disability, illness or limited capacity, and youth with health, energy and vitality,’’ he said.

Of all English-speaking OECD countries, Australia has the lowest workforce participation rate for the over-55s.

The changes also propose that aged care providers will no longer be permitted to discriminate on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity when delivering care for same-sex couples.