Resolved complaint (166) about victimisation in employment

About the complaint

The complainant was employed on a casual basis with the respondent holiday park. She alleged a colleague sexually harassed her, including by discussing his personal relationships with her, telling others they were involved, touching her stomach and skirt, and greeting her with a hug and a kiss. She alleged that when she reported this behaviour to the park manager he told her she is an attractive woman and should expect men to be attracted to her. The complainant alleged the holiday park reduced her hours after she raised her concerns. 

The holiday park said an investigation found the alleged sexual harassment could not be substantiated. The complainant's colleague denied the allegations and the park manager said his words were taken out of context. 

The complaint was resolved with an agreement that the holiday park pay the complainant $40,000 as general damages, provide her with a statement of service and review its policies and procedures on sexual harassment. The park manager agreed to write to the complainant apologising for the events giving rise to the complaint.

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