Political belief or activity is where a person holds, or does not hold, a lawful political belief, or whether they participate, or refuse to take part, in a lawful political activity.

This includes holding particular political beliefs, being a member (or refusing to join) a political party or participating in political action.

Example of political belief or activity discrimination

At a job interview Joe is asked if he is a member of a conservation organisation. When he says no, the interviewer abruptly ends the discussion and tells him that all employees must share the beliefs of the employer.

Are there any exceptions?

TheEqual Opportunity Act 2010 includes some generalexceptions. Thismeans that discrimination may not be against the law in particular circumstances.

An employer may also discriminate on the basis of political belief or activity where the job being offered is as a political adviser for a government minister or work for a political party, electorate office or any similar employment.