Sign up for a free Business Victoria account to access customised information about your business and save important forms and information.
As an employer, you have a legal responsibility to ensure your workplace is safe and free from discrimination, bullying, sexual harassment, victimisation and racial and religious vilification. Most complaints received by the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission are employment related and many could have been avoided if appropriate procedures were in place.
Under the Equal Opportunity Act 2010, employers have a positive duty to take reasonable and proportionate measures to eliminate discrimination, sexual harassment and victimisation. Complying with the positive duty will help you stop discrimination before it occurs.
There are also benefits to having a workplace free from discrimination,bullying sexual harassment and victimisation. Workers are more likely to have better morale and be more productive if they feel safe and supported. Staff turnover and recruitment costs are reduced, as are staff complaints, disruptions and legal disputes.
Your Human Resources Manual should include an equal opportunity policy and information about discrimination, bullying, sexual harassment and victimisation in the workplace.
 | Human Resources Manual Template (DOC 316Kb) |
| A comprehensive Human Resources Manual Template with standard policies and procedures which you can adapt to suit the needs of your business. |
A number of personal characteristics are protected from discrimination under state and Commonwealth law. The Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (Vic) protects personal characteristics such as sex, race, age, disability, pregnancy and carer or parental status.
Types of direct and indirect discrimination.
Circumstances in which sexual harassment may be considered to occur.
Circumstances in which these laws apply in the workplace.
Legal responsibilities regarding how employees and employers act toward others within the workplace.
Key strategies to assist in preventing and eliminating discrimination and sexual harassment.
Note that the information provided on this website is intended as a guide only. It is not intended as a substitute for legal advice.
