Protecting Women Against Workplace Harassment

Workplace harassment is a serious problem that disproportionately affects women. It can take many forms, including sexual harassment, bullying, and discrimination. Workplace harassment can have a devastating impact on victims, both personally and professionally. It can lead to physical and mental health problems, decreased productivity, and job loss.

What is workplace harassment?

Under Australian law, workplace harassment is any unwelcome conduct that:

1. Makes a person feel unsafe at work
2. Offends, humiliates, or intimidates a person
3. Interferes with a person’s work performance
4. Creates a hostile work environment

Workplace harassment can take many forms, including:

1. Sexual harassment
2. Bullying
3. Discrimination
4. Verbal abuse
5. Physical abuse
6. Threats
7. Intimidation

The impact of workplace harassment on women

Workplace harassment can have a significant impact on women’s physical and mental health, productivity, and careers.

Victims of workplace harassment may experience symptoms such as:

1. Anxiety
2. Depression
3. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
4. Headaches
5. Stomach aches
6. Insomnia
7. Fatigue
8. Difficulty concentrating

Productivity

Workplace harassment can lead to decreased productivity, absenteeism, and job loss. Victims of workplace harassment may be afraid to come to work, or they may be unable to focus on their work.

Careers

Workplace harassment can damage victims’ careers. Victims may be passed over for promotions, or they may be forced to leave their jobs. Workplace harassment can also make it difficult for victims to find new jobs.

Preventing workplace harassment

Employers have a legal responsibility to prevent workplace harassment. They can do this by:

1. Developing and implementing clear policies and procedures on workplace harassment
2. Providing training to employees on workplace harassment prevention
3. Creating a culture of respect and inclusion in the workplace

Responding to workplace harassment

If you experience workplace harassment, you should report it to your supervisor or HR department. You should also keep a record of the harassment, including the date, time, and details of what happened.

If your employer does not take appropriate action to address the harassment, you may contact Fair Work Australia or the Australian Human Rights Commission.

What to do if you are experiencing workplace harassment

If you are experiencing workplace harassment, there are a few things you can do:

1. Report the harassment to your supervisor or HR department. Be sure to keep a record of the harassment, including the date, time, and details of what happened.
2. Seek support from friends, family, or a professional. It is important to have people who can support you during this difficult time.
3. Contact Fair Work Australia or the Australian Human Rights Commission. You may also be able to sue your employer.

Workplace harassment is a serious problem, but it is preventable. Employers have a legal responsibility to create a safe and harassment-free workplace for all employees. If you experience workplace harassment, you have the right to report it and to take legal action against the harasser.

Additional tips for preventing workplace harassment

1. Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to the behaviour of your colleagues and supervisors. If you see or hear something that is inappropriate, speak up.
2. Set boundaries. Be clear about what behaviour you are and are not comfortable with. Let your colleagues and supervisors know that you will not tolerate harassment.
3. Document everything. If you experience harassment, keep a record of what happened, including the date, time, and details of the incident. This will be helpful if you need to report the harassment or take legal action.

Some Frequently Asked Questions:

What is workplace harassment in Australia?

Answer: Workplace harassment is any unwelcome conduct that makes a person feel unsafe at work, offends, humiliates, or intimidates a person, interferes with a person’s work performance, or creates a hostile work environment.

What are the different types of workplace harassment in Australia?

Answer: Workplace harassment can take many forms, including sexual harassment, bullying, and discrimination.

1. Sexual harassment is any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that makes a person feel offended, humiliated, or intimidated.
2. Bullying is repeated and unwelcome behavior that creates a hostile work environment.
3. Discrimination is treating someone unfairly because of their race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability.

What is the impact of workplace harassment on women in Australia?

Answer: Workplace harassment can have a devastating impact on women’s physical and mental health, productivity, and careers. Victims of workplace harassment may experience symptoms such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, headaches, stomachaches, insomnia, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. Workplace harassment can also lead to decreased productivity, absenteeism, and job loss.

What are the responsibilities of employers in Australia to prevent workplace harassment?

Answer: Employers have a legal responsibility to provide a safe and harassment-free workplace for all employees. They can do this by:

1. Developing and implementing clear policies and procedures on workplace harassment
2. Providing training to employees on workplace harassment prevention
3. Creating a culture of respect and inclusion in the workplace

What should I do if I experience workplace harassment in Australia?

Answer: If you experience workplace harassment, you should report it to your supervisor or HR department. You should also keep a record of the harassment, including the date, time, and details of what happened. If your employer does not take appropriate action to address the harassment, you may contact Fair Work Australia or the Australian Human Rights Commission.

What are the legal options available to victims of workplace harassment in Australia?

Answer: Victims of workplace harassment may have legal options available to them. They may be able to file a complaint with Fair Work Australia or the Australian Human Rights Commission. They may also be able to sue their employer.

What are some resources available to victims of workplace harassment in Australia?

Answer: There are a number of resources available to victims of workplace harassment in Australia. Here are a few:

1. Fair Work Australia
2. Australian Human Rights Commission
3. WorkSafe Victoria 
4. Australian Trade Union Council

How can I talk to my employer about workplace harassment?

Answer: It can be difficult to talk to your employer about workplace harassment, but it is important to do so. Here are a few tips:

1. Be prepared. Think about what you want to say and how you want to say it.
2. Be direct. State clearly that you are experiencing workplace harassment and provide specific examples.
3. Be calm and professional. Avoid using emotional language or making accusations.
4. Be specific about what you want your employer to do to address the harassment.

If your employer does not take appropriate action to address the harassment, you may contact Fair Work Australia or the Australian Human Rights Commission.

Remember, you are not alone. There are people who can help you.