The sexual advance must be objectively viewed as behaviour that would offend, humiliate or intimidate the person harassed. Wolf-whistling Unwelcome practical jokes Offensive or inappropriate comments, questions, jokes, innuendo, threats, demands, and insults are also included. Speaking in a language not understood by all listeners may also constitute discrimination or harassment. The cost occasioned by employment-related harassment is significant. For example, reports have found that women who have been sexually harassed may suffer physical, mental and psychological harm and illness.
Many areas of law apply to prohibit harassment in the workplace.
However, criminal law can also apply to offences that may accompany the harassment. For example, physical assault, sexual assault, indecent exposure, obscene communications and stalking. If one employee requests, induces, encourages, authorises or assists another employee to commit harassment or discrimination against another employee, that person may also be liable. Therefore, any third parties indirectly involved in the conduct may have a complaint lodged against them as they have also participated in the prohibited conduct. Format this article for printing Telstra is not a qualified adviser and this information has been prepared without taking into account any individual circumstances.