The regulation of hair: a hairy issue for equality and human rights?

Our hair is personal to us—as individuals we have different hair lengths, styles, colours and facial hair. However, our hair is regulated in various contexts, including in schools and workplaces. In recent times, how we wear our hair is increasingly being seen as a social justice issue. This current perspective discusses case studies to, firstly, illustrate how and why hair can be important to identity; secondly, identify the various sources of legal protection of hair in Australia; thirdly, analyse the scope of those sources; and fourthly, identify further areas for potential expansion or limitation. It examines the protection of hair through equal opportunity laws, international human rights law, and bills of rights enacted in the Australian Capital Territory, Victoria and Queensland.