Balancing Health & Human Rights: Lessons from the Pandemic

The Human Rights Commission’s latest report has shed light on the hidden toll of pandemic restrictions. While necessary measures saved lives, they also left many vulnerable groups—domestic violence victims, renters, casual workers, and people with disabilities—struggling through severe hardship.

Stories of unimaginable pain emerged:

💔 A mother forced to give birth to her stillborn child alone.

💔 A son dressed in a suit to watch his father’s funeral remotely.

💔 A domestic violence victim left trapped with her abuser.

These are not just statistics. 

They are human experiences that remind us why any emergency response must balance health priorities with fundamental human rights.

The report calls for a new Emergency Response Framework, ensuring that human rights are not overlooked in future crises. Compassionate, tailored, and community-centred policies must be at the core of our approach moving forward.

Let’s ensure that no one is left behind in future emergencies. 

As we navigate natural disasters, we have the opportunity to apply these lessons now.

If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out:

📞 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) Australia

📞 Lifeline 13 11 14 Australia

📞 beyondblue 1300 22 4636 Australia