Addressing inequality: The impetus behind the Sex Discrimination and Fair Work (Respect at Work) Amendment Act 2021 (Cth)

Abstract

While this article commences with apologies issued on 8 February 2022 in the Commonwealth Parliament in respect of alleged sexual harassment, workplace bullying and sexual assault, its focus is on the drivers behind and implications of the Sex Discrimination and Fair Work (Respect at Work) Amendment Act 2021 (Cth). Both flowed from reviews conducted by the Federal Sex Discrimination Commissioner, Kate Jenkins, and both were propelled by a need to address historical deficiencies and inequalities in workplace practice and culture leading to what is described now by the leader of the Opposition as ‘unsafe’ and ‘disrespectful’ workplaces.