Everyone has the right to a workplace that is safe and free from sexual harassment. Employers have an obligation to manage the health and safety risks of workplace sexual harassment.
Sexual harassment is unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature in relation to a person. It occurs in circumstances where a reasonable person would anticipate the possibility of the person who is harassed being offended, humiliated or intimidated. Conduct of a sexual nature includes making a statement of a sexual nature to, or in front of, a person. The statement can be spoken or in writing. Examples of sexual harassment might include:
- inappropriate physical contact, such as unwelcome touching
- staring or leering
- a suggestive comment or joke
- a sexually explicit picture or poster
- an unwanted invitation to go out on dates
- a request for sex
- intrusive questioning about a person's private life or body
- unnecessary familiarity, such as deliberately brushing up against a person
- an insult or a taunt of a sexual nature
- a sexually explicit email or text message.
Behaviour that isn’t sexual harassment might still be considered bullying or discrimination in the workplace.
Sexual harassment doesn’t have to be repeated or continuous. It can be a one-off incident. Sexual harassment in connection to employment can be considered serious misconduct and can be a valid reason for dismissal.
Some forms of sexual harassment could constitute criminal offences and should be reported to the police.
If you experience sexual harassment in your workplace, please complete a Member Support Form located by logging in to your member dashboard.