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Change starts when we speak up.

What is sexual harassment in the workplace?

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Sexual harassment is any unwelcome sexual behaviour that makes someone feel uncomfortable, unsafe, pressured, objectified or intimidated.

 

It can be verbal, physical or written, and it’s defined by the impact on the person experiencing it, not the intent behind it.

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Taking the first step.​

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If you believe sexual harassment has happened or is happening at work, the most important first step is to tell someone. Speaking up helps protect your safety, creates a record of what’s occurred and opens the door to support.

 

You can talk to a supervisor or manager, a health and safety representative, your HR department, a counsellor, your union or a lawyer. Reaching out to anyone you trust is a valid starting point.

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It’s also helpful to create your own documentation.

 

Writing down what happened, when it happened, who was involved and how it made you feel can support any future conversations or complaints.

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Clear notes can make it easier for others to understand what you’ve experienced and take the right action.

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You don’t have to face it alone, and you deserve to be heard.

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Organisations you can go to:

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SafeWork NSW

Safe Work NSW assists with concerns about workplace harassment under the NSW Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

 

Get in contact to report an incident or unsafe workplace behaviour.

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Find out what reporting and support options are available if you have experienced workplace sexual harassment, witnessed it or know someone who has been affected.

Fair Work Commission - Ombudsman

The Fair Work Ombudsman can help if you’ve experienced sexual harassment at work.

They provide information on your rights, guide you through making a complaint and outline the steps your workplace must take to keep you safe.

 

If you need support or aren’t sure where to start, they’re a trusted place to turn.

Fair Trading NSW

For concerns about agent misconduct or unacceptable behaviour, you can lodge a complaint online or by phone on 13 32 20.

 

Provide details of the incident and any supporting documents. Fair Trading will assess and investigate the matter and take appropriate action where required.

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Anti-Discrimination NSW

This site includes real‑life case studies showing how the law protects people from sexual harassment.

 

Even when it happens outside regular work hours or seems like a private situation.

 

It explains how you can lodge a complaint under the relevant Act, and how that process can lead to compensation and other remedies for those affected.

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NSW Police Force

We are here to stand with you.

 

If you or someone you know has experienced workplace sexual assault, we want you to know that we are here for you.

 

We understand that it can be an extremely scary and distressing experience.

 

We are truly sorry that you had to go through this. You did not deserve it, and it is not your fault.

Access support and counselling services:

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If you have experienced or witnessed workplace sexual harassment, check with your workplace if you have access to counselling services through an Employee Assistance Program. 

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You can also access support by contacting:

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  • Lifeline Australia - 13 11 14

  • 1800 RESPECT - 1800 737 732

  • Full Stop Australia - 1800 385 578

  • MensLine Australia - 1300 789 978

  • NSW Health Mental Health Line - 1800 011 511

  • Kids Helpline (for under 25s) - 1800 551 800

  • BeyondBlue - 1300 224 636

  • Suicide Call Back Service - 1300 659 467

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