Many people find it difficult to speak up, because they feel too intimidated or because of their social or cultural background. Usually though, the person doing the harassing should be given some indication that his or her conduct is unwelcome. Experience has shown that the sooner you make your views clear, the more chance there is of the offensive behaviour stopping. A single act of physical intimacy can amount to sexual harassment. So can a single request for sexual favours.
Sexual harassment can occur between both or the same sexes.
The law protects both men and women from sexual harassment. It is true, however, that most people subjected to this type of discrimination are women. The Equal Opportunity Commission can help even if you have left your job because of harassment. If you have reached a stage where you want to resign because of harassment, please contact us first. We may be able to help sort things out so that you don't need to resign.