New laws prohibiting sexual harassment in connection with work apply from 6 March 2023.
These changes are part of the Australian Government’s Secure Jobs, Better Pay legislation that passed in December 2022.
Workplace sexual harassment protections
The changes mean:
- sexual harassment in connection with work is prohibited
- there are more protections against sexual harassment
- the Fair Work Ombudsman (that’s us) and the Fair Work Commission have new powers in relation to sexual harassment protections.
Read our expanded information
We’ve expanded our website information and updated our resources in response to these changes. Read more at New workplace sexual harassment laws.
You can find our existing information on the full set of the Australian Government’s Secure Jobs, Better Pay reforms at Secure Jobs, Better Pay: changes to Australian workplace laws.
Support services
Contacting the police
Some forms of sexual harassment are criminal conduct.
If you have experienced sexual assault and feel you would like to make a complaint or report to the police, access Police contacts for sexual assault.
Sexual assault support services
1800RESPECT is the national domestic, family and sexual violence counselling, information and support service. If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au.