Understanding and Addressing Work-Related Gendered Violence in the Workplace

In recent years, there has been growing recognition and concern regarding work-related gendered violence in Australia. This form of violence encompasses various behaviours aimed at individuals due to their sex, gender, or sexual orientation, posing significant risks to health and safety. From sexual harassment to intimidation and exclusion, work-related gendered violence can have profound impacts on employees across various industries. In this post, we'll delve into what constitutes work-related gendered violence, its potential effects, and the responsibilities of both employers and employees in addressing and preventing it.

Exploring Work-Related Gendered Violence:

Work-related gendered violence encompasses a broad spectrum of behaviors, ranging from explicit acts like sexual harassment and assault to subtler forms such as verbal abuse and exclusion. It can originate from various sources, including managers, co-workers, clients, or members of the public. Examples provided by WorkSafe Victoria illustrate the diverse nature of these incidents, from offensive language used in a call center to discriminatory dress code requirements in a pub.

Such violence doesn't just inflict immediate harm but can also lead to long-term consequences. Victims may experience feelings of isolation, anxiety, depression, and even physical injuries. Moreover, the financial and social impacts can be substantial, affecting not only the individual but also their families and communities.

Employer and Employee Responsibilities:

Employers play a crucial role in ensuring a safe work environment free from gendered violence. According to Australian regulations, employers must identify and mitigate risks associated with work-related gendered violence. This includes consulting with employees and Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) to address these hazards effectively. On the other hand, employees are obligated to report incidents of gendered violence and cooperate with their employers' efforts to prevent such occurrences.

Reporting and Seeking Support:

Reporting incidents of work-related gendered violence is paramount in combatting this issue. Employers should establish clear reporting mechanisms that allow employees to report incidents anonymously and confidentially. Seeking support from unions or advisory services like WorkSafe's Advisory Service can provide guidance and assistance in navigating the reporting process.

Work-related gendered violence is a pressing issue that requires collective action from employers, employees, and regulatory bodies. By understanding the nature of this violence and fulfilling their respective responsibilities, workplaces can cultivate environments that prioritise safety, respect, and equality for all individuals.

Like all health and safety risks, it is about knowing where these risks may present in your business, applying adequate levels of controls and monitoring the effectiveness of them.

If you are looking to understand these risks further, book in a discussion with us today.

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