The AHRCA gives the AHRC the power to investigate acts and practices done "by or on behalf of the Commonwealth" that may be inconsistent with human rights recognised in the certain international instruments. This includes the United Nations' International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

The Commission attempts to conciliate human rights complaints. If a matter does not settle and the Commission finds a breach of human rights, it reports its findings to the parties and the Federal Attorney-General, who tables the reports in Parliament. The Commission's recommendations can include compensation but are not enforceable.

The AHRC can also enquire into complaints of discrimination in employment on a broad range of grounds, including social origin, nationality, religion, political opinion, trade union activity, criminal record and sexual preference (Part II Division 4 AHRCA).

This process is different to the process for complaints under the racial, sex, disability and age discrimination Acts mentioned above. The Commission is limited to attempting to conciliate these types of complaints and reporting its findings to the parties and the Federal Attorney-General, who tables the reports in Parliament. The Commission's recommendations can include compensation but are not enforceable.

Examples of reports to the Attorney-General following complaints of breaches of human rights or workplace discrimination can be found at: www.humanrights.gov.au/legal/humanrightsreports/index.html.