Respect@Work
The mining sector continues to work towards a culture that respects all people, eliminates sexual harassment, and stands up, supports and cares for all those affected by unacceptable behaviour.
Sexual harassment is unacceptable and unlawful and has no place in our industry.
Sexual harassment occurs across society and in workplaces causing profound physical, emotional and psychological harm. MCA initiatives to assist members address these issues include:
- An MCA statement confirming the industry commitment to eliminate sexual harassment
- MCA Policy – Safe, healthy and respectful workplaces 2021, which specifically addresses psychological harm and respectful behaviours.
- Releasing a national industry code that provides clear expectations for members to establish both preventative and response measures to address sexual harassment.
- Development and release of a toolkit of fact sheets, guidance and templates.
Fact Sheets
- What is sexual harassment?
- Does sexual harassment occur in the mining industry?
- Where does sexual harassment occur?
- Why is sexual harassment a safety and health risk?
- Who is vulnerable to sexual harassment?
- What are the workplace risk factors?
- What is “casual” sexism?
- What laws apply?
- Non-disclosure agreements
- External support and advisory services
Prevention Measures - Guidance and Templates
- Leadership
- Workplace policy or code of conduct
- How everyone can support and empower each other in the workplace
- Relationship policy
- Empowering bystanders - What should I do if I see or hear about sexual harassment at work?
- Board reporting framework
- eSafety and social media
- Template - Company commitment to eliminate sexual harassment
- Template - Leadership statement
- Template - Example culture survey
- Template - Example safety share
- Template - Communications and signage for site/offices
- Checklist - Hazard Identification
- Checklist – Travel and accommodation
- Checklist - Social events
Acknowledgement: a range of information has been drawn from the Australian Human Rights Commission, Champions of Change Coalition, Safe Work Australia, COMCARE, and state based Human Rights Commissions and Safety and Health Authorities.
MCA thanks these organisations for their extraordinary work over the past few years.
Disclaimer: These resources have been prepared to provide general guidance on the systems that can be developed to respond to risks of sexual harassment. They are not intended to be used for any other purpose and are not comprehensive. These resources are current as at November 2021. You should obtain specific advice about your own circumstances.