Policies
Fairness
I believe in fairness for every Victorian. From ensuring fair and equitable access to prescribed medications to strengthening inclusive services and support for all, particularly our LGBTQIA+ and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities.
Access to prescribed medication
A prescribed medication should not be grounds for discrimination. Patients should not be excluded, disadvantaged, harassed or treated differently simply because they use medication that forms part of their medical treatment.
In April 2026, we introduced the Equal Opportunity Amendment (Medical Treatment) Bill 2026 to help ensure people receiving prescribed medication (including medicinal cannabis) can access employment, education, accommodation and community life fairly.
Treatment decisions should be based on evidence and individual circumstances, rather than assumptions or stigma about a particular medication.
The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) has participated in parliamentary inquiries examining the rights of medicinal cannabis patients and we need to recognise access to medicines as a fundamental human right.
Workplace drug testing laws
With workplace drug testing laws in Victoria, patients who are prescribed medicinal cannabis must be treated fairly and with dignity.
Workplace drug testing should focus on actual impairment and safety and not be used to discriminate against patients who use legally prescribed medicinal cannabis.
Patients should be treated fairly and judged on their ability to safely perform their work, regardless of which medication they have been prescribed.
LGBTIQA+
Rachel has been a strong, consistent advocate for LGBTIQA+ equality in Victoria, including pushing for inclusive mental health and specialist health services.
Rachel has also advocated for stronger early intervention and prevention programs, specialised housing solutions, and strengthened anti-vilification protections to address discrimination and abuse facing this community.
Rachel has advocated for the Victorian Commissioner for LGBTIQA+ Communities to continue to play a vital role in ensuring LGBTIQA+ voices are heard, respected and represented in government decision-making.
Anti-vilification laws and protections must be extended to LGBTIQA+ people to protect communities and individuals from discrimination and abuse.
