Which of the following is a legislative reform associated with second wave feminism in Australia?

• A. Abolition of all anti-discrimination laws
• B. The introduction of the Sex Discrimination Act 1984
• C. Abolition of divorce laws
• D. Outlawing women from workforce

Answer: (B)

Second wave feminism in Australia aimed to secure legal protections against gender discrimination and open up equal opportunities for women. The key reform that embodies this push is the Sex Discrimination Act 1984. This law makes it unlawful to discriminate on the basis of sex in areas such as employment, education, and the provision of goods and services, and it established a national standard for fair treatment. It gave individuals a clear mechanism to challenge unfair practices and helped reduce barriers to women’s participation in work, politics, and public life.

Other options don’t fit with the movement’s goals. Abolishing anti-discrimination laws would remove protections that feminism fought to secure. Abolishing divorce laws or outlawing women from the workforce runs directly against the drive for equality and autonomy that defined second wave feminism.