Passaage of NT Anti Discrimination Amendment Bill

The Australian Association of Christian Schools (AACS) acknowledges the passage of the Anti-Discrimination Amendment Bill 2025 in the Northern Territory Parliament last night.

The Bill introduces a number of positive changes, including clearer provisions allowing religious educational institutions to preference the employment of staff who share and support their beliefs, along with a revised vilification framework aiming to better balance freedom of speech with protections from discrimination.

While these reforms are a good step towards restoring key freedoms for faith communities, AACS had written to the Government seeking further consultation and amendments to ensure the legislation fully delivers on the CLP’s election commitment to restore religious freedom and freedom of speech.

“It is essential that the law provides genuine and enduring protections for freedom of religion and belief, including the ability for faith-based organisations and schools to uphold and model their faith within their communities," said AACS CEO Vanessa Cheng.

"We had hoped for further consultation with faith leaders before the Bill was finalised to ensure a balanced and enduring outcome that truly honours the Government’s election commitments."

AACS will continue to advocate for laws that respect parental choice in education and the freedom of faith-based schools to employ staff who share their beliefs and to operate in accordance with their values.