Preventing gender-based violence at work

Work is underway to create safer workplaces through a state government initiative to prevent gender-based violence at work.

WorkSafe Victoria has partnered with the Sir Zelman Cowen Centre at Victoria University to establish the network. The network brings workplaces together through a series of events and opportunities to share evidence, insights, best practice and resources.

Workplace gender-based violence includes any behavior that affects the health and safety of someone because of their gender or sexual orientation, or because they do not conform to gender stereotypes. It can include sexual harassment, stalking, verbal abuse, unwanted comments or gestures, and even threats or physical violence.

The network focuses on preventing gender-based violence against women and non-binary people at the intersection of race, religion and ethnicity, who work in high-risk sectors.

A 2022 Australian Human Rights Commission survey found that one in three people had experienced sexual harassment in the workplace in the past five years, and one in five in the previous year. The survey also found that only a third of Australian workers believe their organisation is doing enough to address the issue.

The learning network is part of the $6.6 million WorkWell Respect Program. The program includes the WorkWell Respect Fund, which provides funding to support evidence-based projects to create sector-wide change in health care, education, local government and the justice system.

The 18-month initiative will include a series of events between July 2024 and February 2025.

For more information visit wwrn.com.au.