What does the law say about workplace sexual harassment?

• Australian Human Rights Commission
What does the law say about workplace sexual harassment

Sexual harassment is a human rights issue; it is also a workplace hazard that is known to cause psychological and physical harm.

This factsheet contains information about:

  1. The definition of sexual harassment
  2. The definition of workplace sexual harassment
  3. Other workplace rights

There are a number of laws at the federal, state and territory, and international levels that are relevant to workplace sexual harassment, including:

  • The Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth) (“Sex Discrimination Act”)
  • The Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) (“Fair Work Act”)
  • State and territory anti-discrimination, equal opportunity and human rights laws
  • Commonwealth, state and territory Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws
  • Commonwealth, state and territory workers’ compensation laws
  • Criminal law
  • Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

These laws seek to create safer and more respectful workplaces.

Download the factsheet for more information.

Respect@Work acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and to Elders past and present. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples should be aware that this website may contain images and voices of people who have died.

Signup for updates