SafeWork NSW has launched a new taskforce to help stop sexual harassment in the workplace.
Announcing its Respect at Work Taskforce, SafeWork said the Taskforce would address harmful workplace behaviours that particularly affected women in the workplace, including sexual harassment.
It said that in the past five years, 39 per cent of women had reported being sexually harassed at work, compared to 26 per cent of men.
“All workers have the right to be treated with respect in the workplace,” SafeWork said.
“Businesses have a duty to take all reasonable and practicable steps to eliminate or minimise the risk of harmful workplace behaviours,” it said.
“One type of harmful workplace behaviour is sexual harassment.”
Minister for Fair Trading, Eleni Petinos said the SafeWork NSW Taskforce would provide employers with best-practice guidance on providing workplaces free from sexual harassment.
“Sexual harassment should not be tolerated in our communities, let alone in our workplaces,” Ms Petinos said.
“Everyone has the right to a safe workplace, which is why this taskforce will hold employers accountable for delivering respectful and supportive work environments for women.”
She said the Taskforce would be focused on educating businesses and raising awareness to support employers to prevent sexual harassment in their workplace.
Minister for Women’s Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Sexual Violence, Natalie Ward said the Taskforce would monitor and work with employers across the State to ensure they were complying with their responsibilities to keep their female employees safe.
“Safety for women at work is every employer’s responsibility,” Mrs Ward said.
“This Taskforce will ensure this responsibility is front of mind.”
