Anti-Discrimination Commissioner to conduct review into government office sexual harassment policies

Isabel Bird | Advocate Newspaper | 28 July 2021   

Tasmania’s Anti-Discrimination Commissioner will conduct a review of the bullying, discrimination and sexual harassment policies that exist across all parliament and government offices, and make recommendations to ensure positive workplace cultures.

An independent inquiry was called for by Nelson independent Meg Webb in March this year after revelations about workplace sexual harassment in other interstate parliaments.

It will be conducted by Anti-Discrimination Commissioner Sarah Bolt, who will focus on identifying any gaps in current policies and procedures connected to parliament, ministerial and parliamentary service staff, and the electorate offices.

After investigations, the Commissioner will provide a report recommending actions that should be taken to increase awareness of workplace discrimination, sexual harassment and bullying, and to improve workplace culture within parliament and government.

Premier Peter Gutwein encouraged people to share their feedback and experiences by making a submission to the inquiry.

“When it comes to workplaces, we must lead by example, and this review will identify what is working well, along with any barriers or gaps that need addressing,” he said.

“This will allow us to identify any improvements to ensure we have best practice policies and procedures in place to firstly prevent, or if necessary, to support and work through concerns should they arise.”

Anti-Discrimination Commissioner Sarah Bolt said the review would be conducted under safe and supportive conditions to ensure trust and foster open engagement.

“I want to reiterate that my role is to look at systemic issues, so that gaps related to workplace culture, policies and practices can be properly identified and addressed accordingly,” she said.

“I am mindful that the success of any review is dependent upon the level of participation and engagement of key stakeholders and I would encourage individuals that come forward, to please take the time to engage in the process and the opportunity to influence and make a positive difference.”

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