Alarmingly, 1 in 4 Workplaces Do Not Adequately Monitor Sexual Harassment
Today, the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) released new data revealing that over one in four Australian workplaces are failing to adequately monitor sexual harassment. This is a startling reminder of the gaps that persist in ensuring safe, respectful environments for all employees. The findings stress the importance of proactive measures and a collective commitment to prevention if we are to achieve safer, more respectful workplaces.
The report, which can be accessed here, also sheds light on the vital role that workplace leaders play. Leaders are uniquely positioned to set the tone and culture of their organisations—communicating policy and demonstrating that harassment and gendered violence will not be tolerated. Without clear leadership and commitment from the top, policies may exist on paper, but their implementation and enforcement may fall short.
This WGEA data highlights that it’s not just about having policies in place but ensuring they are communicated, understood, and actively upheld. Leaders need to ensure that training, awareness-raising initiatives, and effective communication are all part of an ongoing strategy. Such actions need to be driven from a place of understanding that preventing workplace gendered violence requires a comprehensive, whole-of-organisation approach—a positive duty for everyone involved.
The findings underscore that effective prevention involves multiple, integrated activities:
Clear policies that prohibit harassment and outline reporting procedures
Training and capacity-building to help employees recognise and address inappropriate behaviour
Regular communication from leadership to reaffirm a commitment to safety and respect
When these elements work together—supported by visible, proactive leadership—the impact is transformative. A safe and respectful workplace is built not by policies alone, but by cultivating a culture of vigilance, accountability, and respect that is led from the top.
At Training for Respect, we believe that fostering respectful work environments and preventing gendered violence requires this collective effort. Our training programs are designed to help leaders and organisations take meaningful steps towards proactive prevention and fulfilling their positive duty to create safer workplaces for all.
The report can be accessed via the WGEA site here.
