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Use of Confidentiality Clauses in the Resolution of WSH Complaints

Guidelines on confidentiality clauses in workplace sexual harassment complaint resolution and their human rights implications for complainants and

Sex and gender Guideline December, 2022

Summary

Guidelines on the Use of Confidentiality Clauses in the Resolution of Workplace Sexual Harassment Complaints

Use of Confidentiality Clauses in the Resolution of WSH Complaints

Sex and gender
Guideline

Guidelines on the Use of Confidentiality Clauses in the Resolution of Workplace Sexual Harassment Complaints

These provide principles to guide the consideration of the use of a confidentiality clause in a settlement agreement concerning a workplace sexual harassment claim. The principles provide that confidentiality clauses should be clear, fair, in plain English and translated or interpreted where necessary, considered on a case-by-case basis and limited in scope and duration. They also provide that the person who made the allegation should have access to independent support and advice and that negotiations about the terms of a settlement agreement should be trauma informed, culturally sensitive and intersectional.

The Guidelines can assist a person who made the allegation of sexual harassment, as well as employers, alleged harassers, employer organisations, unions, legal practitioners, mediators, insurers and anyone else involved in the process of resolving a workplace sexual harassment complaint.

Fact sheets

Also available are fact sheets that provide information for individuals, lawyers and small businesses about the use of confidentiality clauses in settlement agreements concerning workplace sexual harassment claims. This fact sheets complement the Guidelines on the Use of Confidentiality Clauses in the Resolution of Workplace Sexual Harassment Complaints.

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