2018-02-09
The complainant had been employed at the respondent warehouse company for over ten years, since she was a young worker. At the time of the alleged events, she was employed as retail operations manager. The complainant alleged that one of the warehouse owners sexually harassed her throughout her employment, including by telling her she had “the best boobs”, starting at her breasts and asking to touch them and requesting “blow jobs” while pushing her head down towards his groin. She said that after she made a complaint to the company, she was moved into a different role at a different site. She said the new role was not enjoyable and did not attract as much income in penalty rates. She claimed she was aware of a number of employees who claimed to have been sexually harassed by the owner.
On being advised of the complaint, the company and owner agreed to participate in conciliation.
The complaint was resolved. The parties agreed to end the employment relationship. The company agreed to pay the complainant $100,000, comprising relevant termination payments and general damages. The company also agreed to develop policies and training relating to discrimination and harassment in the workplace.
Year
Discrimination type
Sex Discrimination Act
Grounds
Sexual harassment
Areas
Employment
Compensation
Anti-discrimination/EEO policy developed
Policy change/Change in practice
Amount
$100,000