What Should A Victim Do In Case Of Sexual Harassment In The Workplace

The question of what should a victim do in case of sexual harassment is usually answered with a reporting process. The more useful starting point is knowing what protects you afterwards.

Victimisation is separately unlawful. Treating someone badly because they made a complaint, or supported someone else’s, is its own breach. It does not depend on the original complaint being substantiated.

It covers more than dismissal. Reduced shifts, exclusion from work, a sudden change in a performance review, being moved while the other person stays, or being frozen out socially can all count.

It covers witnesses too. People who give evidence are protected on the same basis.

Keep your own dated record of what changes after you report, including small things that seem unrelated at the time. Patterns are easier to see later than in the moment. The Australian Human Rights Commission and the Fair Work Ombudsman cover this. This is general information rather than legal advice.

See Sentrient’s sexual harassment course and equal employment opportunity course.