Sexual harassment in the workplace is rampant and preventable

Studies have shown that workplaces have a sexual harassment problem. Working to build an environment where employees are safe and protected should be on every employer’s mind.

Over the last five years, 41 per cent of women and 26 per cent of men have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace.

The study by Our Watch highlighted just how rampant sexual harassment is in our workplaces, with 86 per cent of leaders believing it is a real issue. However, it is an avoidable problem, with 91 per cent of leaders noting sexual harassment should be a priority for employers to address, and 90 per cent agreeing that it could be prevented.

Federal Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence, Justine Elliot, noted that employers have a responsibility to prevent these issues at work.

“Too many women in Australia are denied the basic right of working in an environment that is free from harassment, disrespect and bullying,” said Elliot.

“We have come too far as a society to continue to allow thousands of women to be pushed out of jobs and opportunities, as a consequence of employers not demonstrating the leadership required to ensure their safety and security. We are looking to industry and business leaders to take up this challenge and help us stamp out this unfair treatment, and foster equality and respect in the workplace once and for all.”

Some industries fared worse than others. In telecommunications, 60 per cent of women reported experiencing sexual harassment in the last five years. Meanwhile, 51 per cent of women in building and construction and 40 per cent in retail said the same.

As far as specific subgroups went, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders (56 per cent), young people (46 per cent), LGBTQIA+ workers (46 per cent) and those with a disability (48 per cent) reported experiencing these issues at work.

In most cases (79 per cent), men were the perpetrators. To stamp out incidents, employers should work to review and adjust processes to allow for greater protection of staff, especially women.

“Sexual harassment happens because of sexism and disrespect. By creating a culture of respect and equality, workplaces can prevent sexual harassment,” said Our Watch chief executive, Patty Kinnersly.

“Workplaces can start by auditing their systems and processes to consider whether they directly or indirectly negatively impact men or women; they can help build their leadership team’s commitment to gender equality and respect; and they can action a step-by-step process to achieving equality and respect.”

Another beneficial method for reducing incidents, according to Kinnersly, is to develop more women leaders.

“Even a small increase in women in leadership roles results in reports of sexual harassment declining by more than 20 per cent in the years that follow. This is because these employers are more likely to have more policies that support gender equality in the workplace.”