A decision handed down by the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission has awarded the highest amount of damages in a sexual harassment case before the Commission. Commissioner Nader found the sexual harassment suffered by Ms Williams and the disregard by the RAAF of their obligations in these circumstances caused her to suffer extreme distress. Federal Sex Discrimination Commissioner Susan Halliday said she was gravely disappointed at the treatment suffered by Ms Williams.
Sexual harassment remains a significant discrimination issue in the workplace.
I see far too much of this. This decision again reinforces that sex discrimination law remains essential and women are entitled, just like men, to respect. Employers have a mandatory obligation to prevent such behaviour and, if it does occur, to deal with it quickly and effectively. The RAAF failed Ms Williams and the Australian public. This matter is among the last remaining hearings being conducted by the Commission as a result of legislative changes that have transferred the hearing of complaints unable to be conciliated to the Federal Court.