New union policy on sexual harassment

By Melanie Sjoberg

ADELAIDE — "Sexual harassment is against the law", ACTU president Jennie George reminded more than 60 participants at the launch of a new publication of the SA United Trades and Labour Council, Uniting to Eliminate Sexual Harassment.

George pointed out that complaints of sexual harassment generated the second highest caseload for the Working Women's Centre, which assisted in the production of the document. She added that it is unfortunate that it still has to be argued that fighting sexual harassment is important. The document was written because leading women unionists believe trade unions are not proactive enough on the issue.

George drew attention to the fact a union can be held liable if it fails to act when complaints of sexual harassment are raised by members.

The document states that unions should be not merely use legal action. It explains that unions have a role to play in creating a sexual harassment-free culture and atmosphere in workplaces by ensuring that their own employees are not subjected to harassment and other forms of abusive behaviour.

Union policy, the document asserts, should include processes to deal with complaints in which a union member or official is the alleged abuser. By taking action, unions reinforce the rights of all women and men to a workplace free from offensive behaviour, the document points out.

The document also suggests that unions consider funding independent representation in sexual harassment cases to avoid a conflict of interests.

From GLW issue 363