Know Your Rights - Podcasts

How the law can help mob when things go wrong

Introduction

Know Your Rights is a podcast series that shines a light on the everyday discrimination First Peoples in Victoria continue to face — in schools, sport, shops, healthcare, and within the criminal legal system.

Hosted by journalist Jedda Costa, a proud Wemba Wemba, Yorta Yorta and Mutti Mutti woman from Naarm, this five-part series unpacks real stories from the community and explores how they connect to our shared history and ongoing fight for justice.

Who are the podcasts for?

These podcasts are designed for First Peoples in Victoria. They support listeners to understand their rights, speak up for themselves or others, and learn how to support First Peoples in their communities. The podcasts share real stories and practical tools, while also helping service providers, educators, and decision-makers understand lived experiences of discrimination and their responsibilities under the law.

How were the podcasts developed?

Created for First Peoples in Victoria and presented by the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) in partnership with the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS), Know Your Rights looks at systemic inequality — from the tragic case of Veronica Nelson to the subtle, everyday moments of bias and exclusion — and asks what it will take to build a fairer future for all.

Podcasts

Your education, your rights: standing up against discrimination in schools

In this episode, we’re talking about the experiences of Aboriginal students in schools across Victoria. You’ll hear powerful stories from parents, educators and advocates, and we’ll unpack the laws that protect your child’s right to equality and dignity, and how you can stand up for them.” “This conversation isn’t just about raising awareness. It’s about empowering you with the knowledge to make a difference. So, whether you’re a parent, educator, or community member, this episode is for you. Play now to listen, learn, and be part of creating safer, fairer schools for every Aboriginal child.

Racism in retail settings: standing up against discrimination in everyday places

Imagine walking into a store to buy something basic, something everybody needs, but instead of a warm greeting, you're met with suspicious glances, whispers, or outright hostility. This is the reality for too many First Peoples. In this episode, we’re unpacking these stories and exploring how you can stand up for your rights when it comes to experiencing racism in the places where, just like everybody else, you’re simply trying to get things done. Listen now to hear powerful stories, learn your rights, and discover ways to speak up and drive change.

Your health, your rights: standing up against racism in healthcare

Imagine walking into a hospital or clinic, feeling unwell and vulnerable, only to be met with cold stares, dismissive tones, or outright discrimination. Instead of care and compassion, you’re faced with assumptions and barriers. This is the reality for too many Aboriginal people when seeking healthcare. In this episode, we’re sharing these experiences and exploring how you can stand up for your rights in everyday healthcare settings that should treat everyone with dignity—but too often, doesn’t. Listen now to hear stories and know your rights so you can stand up for them.

Racism in the criminal legal system:  standing up for justice

In this episode, we’re talking about the experiences of Aboriginal people in the criminal legal system, particularly the case of Gunditjmara, Dja Dja Wurrung, Wiradjuri and Yorta Yorta woman Veronica Nelson, who sadly and tragically passed away in custody in custody 2020, and how Veronica’s rights under the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities were infringed, contributing to this tragic outcome. Listen now to hear Veronica’s story, understand your rights, and learn how to stand up for your rights.

Racism in sport: standing up against discrimination in sport

In this episode, we’re talking about Aboriginal children and teenagers’ experience of racism in community and school sports. We're exploring the experiences of young athletes, hearing from experts, and discussing the legal protections in place to ensure our children can enjoy sports free from discrimination. Listen now to hear how we can make sports safe and fair for all Aboriginal children.