Recognise Naturism as a Legitimate Philosophical Belief System Deserving of Protection
- Target:
- AHRC, State and Territory Anti-Discrimination Commissions, Fair Work Ombudsman,University
- Region:
- Australia
- Website:
- www.naturismre.com
Naturism is more than a recreational activity or lifestyle choice — it is a coherent and deeply held belief system centred on respect for oneself, others, and nature. It embraces principles of personal freedom, body acceptance, environmental harmony, non-violence, and individual integrity. These values reflect a consistent philosophical outlook that informs how naturists view the world, interact with others, and live their daily lives.
In many countries, similar philosophical belief systems are recognised and protected under human rights frameworks. Naturism, when practised respectfully and peacefully, aligns with these international principles by promoting human dignity, mental and physical well-being, and a sustainable relationship with the environment. However, in Australia, naturism remains legally unrecognised as a belief system, often leading to misrepresentation, discrimination, or misunderstanding of its ethical and non-sexual foundations.
This petition, as part of the NaturismRE cultural reform platform, calls upon lawmakers and human rights bodies to formally recognise Naturism as a legitimate philosophical belief system deserving of legal consideration and protection — similar to other protected philosophies or non-theistic belief systems. Such recognition would allow naturists the same rights to freedom of thought, conscience, and expression, enabling them to live authentically and without fear of unjust persecution, while continuing to respect public order and community standards.
We, the undersigned, call on Australian institutions, human rights bodies, and educational organisations to formally recognise naturism as a legitimate philosophical belief system, deserving of the same respect and protection afforded to other ethical worldviews such as veganism, pacifism, or environmental minimalism.
Naturism is not simply a preference for non-sexual nudity. It is a deeply held ethical framework built around:
Body autonomy and body acceptance
Ecological simplicity and sustainability
Personal freedom from material and social constraints
Peaceful coexistence with others and with nature
Despite this, many naturists face exclusion, misunderstanding, or silent discrimination — especially when their lifestyle is expressed in professional, educational, or public settings.
We respectfully request that:
Naturism be acknowledged as a protected philosophical belief system under anti-discrimination frameworks
Employers and institutions be encouraged to accommodate naturist beliefs, such as through clothing flexibility, respectful inclusion, and freedom of expression (within dress codes)
Universities and schools allow academic exploration of naturism in ethics, health, sustainability, and human rights subjects — not as physical practice, but as a legitimate philosophical position
This petition is part of a broader cultural reform effort by NaturismRE, a movement committed to promoting body respect, personal freedom, and sustainable living for all.
Who This Petition Will Be Sent To:
Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC)
State and Territory Anti-Discrimination Commissions (NSW, VIC, QLD, etc.)
Fair Work Ombudsman – for workplace inclusion considerations
University Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Departments – for philosophical recognition and academic freedom
Ethics Advisory Boards in Education – for inclusion in curriculum and respectful discussion
You can further help this campaign by sponsoring it
The Recognise Naturism as a Legitimate Philosophical Belief System Deserving of Protection petition to AHRC, State and Territory Anti-Discrimination Commissions, Fair Work Ombudsman,University was written by Vincent Marty and is in the category Culture at GoPetition.