What is discrimination?

To most people, discrimination means any type of unfair treatment. However, Anti-Discrimination NSW can only deal with discrimination complaints that are covered by the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977.

In NSW, unlawful discrimination is when you are treated less favourably than somebody else because of your:

• disability (includes diseases and illnesses)
• sex (includes pregnancy and breastfeeding)  
• race
• age
• marital or domestic status
• homosexuality
• transgender status
• carer’s responsibilities.

Discrimination is against the law if it happens:

• at work
• in education
• where goods and services are provided
• where accommodation is provided
• within registered clubs.

Carers discrimination is only against the law at work.