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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 1996 Week 12 Hansard (21 November) . . Page.. 4244 ..
Finally, I draw the attention of Members to a number of unrelated amendments which have been included in the Bill to assist in the administration of the legislation.
The first extends the application of the present provisions prohibiting discrimination against persons with guide dogs or hearing dogs, to persons with other "assistance animals". This recognises that animals other than dogs can be used for assistance by persons with an impairment.
Other amendments clarify the position of employment agencies in selecting persons as suitable for a job vacancy. The amendments make clear that to the extent that it is not unlawful, under the Act, for an employer to discriminate in employing a person, it is not unlawful for an employment agency to discriminate in selecting persons suitable for a job vacancy, on behalf of an employer.
Finally, the provision dealing with discrimination by voluntary bodies has been amended to make it clear that it is not unlawful for a voluntary body to discriminate in connection with the provision of benefits, facilities or services to persons who are not members of the body. This is an extension of the existing provision which permits discrimination in connection with the provision of benefits, facilities or services to members. The amendment reflects the underlying policy of allowing voluntary bodies to cater for groups of persons (whether or not members) with particular attributes or interests.
I commend the Bill to the Assembly.
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