With protections for workers from workplace sexual harassment existing in both the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 and the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 it can be confusing for victims to know where to turn. The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) and WorkSafe Victoria have now joined their efforts in a parallel enforcement strategy to improve access and support for victims of workplace sexual harassment.
Together VEOHRC and WorkSafe have developed guidance for victims of workplace sexual harassment that gives general information about the sexual harassment reporting options and processes within VEOHRC and WorkSafe.
The guidance covers what services can be provided by both organisations, what kind of information each organisation will require from the victims (including what happens to your information), what the possible outcomes may be, and where you can find more support services.
All services through VEOHRC or WorkSafe are free to access, and both organisations can arrange for a free interpreter (including AUSLAN interpreters) where required to assist with communication. Depending on the specific needs of each case, victims can access these services from either or both VEOHRC and WorkSafe. The guide is also available in five languages: English, Vietnamese, Chinese (simplified), Chinese (traditional), and Arabic.
The joint resource guide doesn’t provide information about reporting options that might exist within individual workplaces, which victims of workplace sexual harassment may want to consider first. Some workplaces may have Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) who can also provide support to employees when reporting and resolving hazards in the workplace.
You can learn more about gendered violence and sexual harassment in the workplace and how HSRs can help at our Gendered Violence and Sexual Harassment - OHS Reps page and our Workplaces for Women Equality Resources - Gender-based violence and sexual harassment at work. VTHC also offers training in Safe and Respectful Workplaces, Positive Duty and Bystander Action designed to give HSRs, organisers, industrial officers, workers and management the skills and knowledge to contribute to developing and maintaining safe and healthy workplaces.
Read more: How to report sexual harassment at work | WorkSafe Victoria