Sexual harassment is an unwelcome situation that many people encounter in their workplace during their careers. There are both overt and covert forms of sexual harassment. This unsolicited behaviour can take a toll on the mind and body of the victim. Here are some of the behaviours that constitute sexual harassment at the workplace:

Sexual Discrimination in the Workplace

Some conducts at the workplace are clear indicators of sexual harassment. These may include unwanted kissing, butt slapping, touching private parts of the victim, rape, requests for favours of a sexual nature, suggestive gestures, sexually explicit comments, massages, ogling, catcalls or even cornering the victim in a tight space are some of the examples of sexual harassment in the workplace.  

Apart from the above mentioned overt forms of sexual discrimination in the workplace, the incidences of subtle forms of sexual harassment are on the rise. All of the following behaviours can be termed as sexual harassment if the frequency of occurrence is more, and if they are severe enough to make an employee feel threatened and distracted:

  • Compliments on the appearance of the employee given frequently
  • Making comments on the attractiveness of others in the presence of the employee
  • Discussion of sex life in front of the employee
  • Asking the employee about his/her sex life
  • Circulation of nude photos or photos of women and men who are scantily clad
  • Jokes of a sexual nature
  • Sending an employee sexually suggestive messages and e-mails
  • Giving unwanted gifts that are sexual or romantic 
  • Spreading of sexual rumours about an employee
  • Repeated hugs and touching the back of an employee

Apart from the above, as an employee, you should also understand that sexist comments and sexist actions can also be defined as sexual harassment. Not only co-workers, if a client or a customer indulges in inappropriate behaviour, but you are also well within your rights to look for discrimination lawyers in NSW. Finally, be aware of the fact that sexual harassment has no gender. Even a man may face sexual harassment. Irrespective of your gender, sexual harassment lawyers in Sydney can help you in filing a case and seeking justice against the perpetrators.