Sexual harassment

Sexual harassment is not okay, not ever. All workers have the right to a safe workplace that is free of sexual harassment.

What is Sexual Harassment?

Sexual harassment at work can take many forms. Under the Fair Work Act, sexual harassment is defined as:

• an unwelcome sexual advance
• request for sexual favours
• other unwelcome conducts of a sexual nature such as suggestive comments or jokes, comments about your appearance, or asking questions about your private life

Workplace sexual harassment isn’t just limited to unwelcome physical touching, it can be also be verbal or written.

Whether it’s by your manager, a co-worker or customer, workplace sexual harassment is against the law and a breach of your right to a safe workplace.

Your employer has a duty of care to provide you with a safe workplace and should have clear policies and training related to sexual harassment.

Speaking out against and formally reporting sexual harassment isn’t an easy thing to do, but it’s it’s critical to protecting yourselves and others now and into the future.

Some actions you can take include:

• Telling the perpetrator that their behaviour makes you feel uncomfortable if you feel it is safe to do so
• Report it to the SDA so we can help you raise this with your employer and give you advice
• Keep a detailed record of any incidents

The SDA takes all sexual harassment complaints seriously and is here to stand with and support all workers who have experienced sexual harassment.

We’re committed to handling any complaints confidentially, sympathetically and quickly and will always put your best interests first.

If you are considering making a claim for sexual harassment, there are time limits around this so we encourage you contact the SDA as soon as you’re ready.

Remember that you are not alone. If you need professional help or resources, consider the below resources.
And if you need help at work, contact the SDA.

If you are in danger, call 000.