Following The 'Roadmap of Respect'

A survey conducted by Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) found that 33% of people in the workplace have experienced sexual harassment in the last 5 years. Workplace sexual harassment is prevalent and pervasive, it can occur in every industry, in every location and at every level, in Australian workplaces. 

The Federal Government have released, ‘Roadmap for Respect’ in response to the AHRC report, ‘Respect@Work: A National Inquiry into Sexual Harassment in Australian Workplaces.’The roadmap outlines the steps that need to be taken in order to diminish sexual harassment within the workplace. The roadmap and report highlight that the approach to workplace sexual harassment must shift from complaint-based to a proactive and preventative response. This will facilitate a greater responsibility for employers to ensure active steps are being taken to prevent sexual harassment from occurring. 

The Federal Government have announced their intention to initiate legislation in Parliament by June 2021. In preparation, employers must implement relevant procedures and regulations to ensure they are addressing any inappropriate workplace behaviour.

What can you do to prepare?

• Review and reflect on your workplace culture

• Encourage a workplace culture that prioritises mutual respect

• Review workplace policies for managing misconduct, complaints, inappropriate behaviour

• Educate employees, managers, senior executives about topic, ensure there is no confusion about what constitutes as sexual harassment 

For more information, contact Safe Industries Australia.