If you are being sexually harassed or bullied in the workplace, there are a number of options available to you for reporting, both in and outside the workplace. These include the Fair Work Commission, the Australian Human Rights Commission, WHS regulators and the police.

Report at work

Start by speaking with a supportive co-worker or manager within your workplace – they can help support and guide you on what to do next. This might include making a formal complaint to the HR department (if one exists) or the practice principal or director. Many practices have policies and processes to prevent and respond to bullying and sexual harassment. Where it is safe, use these resources to help resolve the issue. 

Report outside work

If you are not comfortable taking your report to your employer, or you have not had success trying to resolve the issues internally, there are a number of government services and agencies that can assist you to take action.

Fair Work Commission

The Fair Work Commission (FWC) is Australia’s national workplace relations tribunal. Its primary role is to resolve disputes, create and enforce employment conditions, and manage certain legal aspects of workplace relationships.

Workers can lodge ‘Stop Sexual Harassment’ or Stop Bullying’ applications with the FWC if they are experiencing these issues at work.

Australian Human Rights Commission

The Australian Human Rights Commission is an independent third party that investigates complaints about discrimination and human rights breaches. You can make a written complaint related to Sex Discrimination to the Commission, which are dealt with through a conciliation process. (Note that at the time of writing, there was a significant delay in actioning conciliation due to demand.)

Work health and safety regulators

State- and territory-based work health and safety (WHS) authorities can help you with all matters related to workplace health and safety, including sexual harassment and bullying. They enforce WHS laws and investigate workplace incidents. You can seek advice and report workplace sexual harassment or bullying as a WHS issue to the following WHS regulators:

Police

If the workplace behaviour you have experienced involves criminal conduct (including actual or attempted assault), consider reporting it to the police. If you are in immediate danger, call the police on 000. If there is no immediate danger, but you need police assistance, phone 131 444 (operates 24/7).

The police can provide assistance and investigate if a crime has been committed. Gather any evidence you have, such as emails, messages or witness information, as this can support your case. When you’re ready, visit your local police station, or call them for advice on how to proceed. You can also take a trusted friend or support person with you to help you feel more comfortable.

Also see Sexual Harassment & Bullying Resources for services, such as legal advice, mental health services and educational tools for preventing harassment and bullying in the workplace, and #MeToo – What to do if you’re Being Harassed for an outline of options and first steps.