Fourth National Survey on workplace sexual harassment

The Australian Human Rights Commission has begun the fourth national survey into workplace sexual harassment.

The Commission has undertaken regular surveys on workplace sexual harassment since 2002.

The Sex Discrimination Commissioner Kate Jenkins said the next iteration of the world-leading survey will provide important information about the nature, prevalence and reporting of Australians’ experiences of sexual harassment.

“The fourth survey will be significantly expanded, with the number of people involved increasing from 2,000 to 10,000 participants.

“Also, for the first time, the survey will provide data on sexual harassment within major industry sectors.

“Obtaining this data will allow us to analyse whether there are any industry specific trends or issues which are contributing to the prevalence of these behaviours.

“The data will also provide guidance to employers to develop more targeted interventions to prevent sexual harassment and to meet their legal obligations to employees.” 

Despite being outlawed for more than 30 years, sexual harassment remains a significant problem in Australia.

In the last survey, conducted in 2012, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men reported that they had been sexually harassed in the workplace in the past 5 years.

Commissioner Jenkins said the global conversation about sexual harassment and the #MeToo movement has created an appetite for change.

“It's essential we capitalise on the momentum and work to prevent sexual harassment and change the culture of workplaces.

“The results of the survey will be very valuable and will assist government and employers to develop strategies targeted at addressing sexual harassment,” she said.

The Department of Social Services has funded the fourth wave of the National Sexual Harassment Survey.

Roy Morgan has been contracted to conduct the survey by phone and online over the next 6-8 weeks.

The results are expected to be released in mid-2018.

Find out more about the survey.

Media contact: Lindy Kerin 0430 366 529 or lindy.kerin@humanrights.gov.au