No one should ever face sexual harassment at work. It is unlawful, and workplaces have a legal responsibility under the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth) and Work Health and Safety laws to provide a safe environment, free from harassment.

It is critical to note that workplace harassment may include assault. Assault itself is a criminal act. If criminal acts of violence have occurred, please contact the Police immediately.

Women in Seafood Australasia (WISA) is not a crisis service or a legal provider, but we are here to stand alongside you.

Our role is to provide you with clear information about your rights, and connect you with the professional services best placed to support your wellbeing and your case.

You are not alone in this — your voice matters, and we will do what we can to help you feel supported and informed as you navigate the next steps.

Safety and Wellbeing

Free and confidential online and phone counselling and support are available.

1800RESPECT is a national 24 hour online and telephone service offering counseling and support to anyone experiencing domestic and family violence and/or sexual assault and their family and friends. Free call: 1800 737 732 (24 hours)

Online Services >>

SANE is for people with recurring, persistent or complex mental health issues and trauma, and for their families, friends and communities. Tel: 1800 187 263

Safe Workplaces – Your Right, Their Responsibility

Every person working in the seafood industry – whether on a boat, in a processing facility, in an office, or out in the field – has the right to do their job free from sexual harassment.

In Australia, the law is very clear: employers have a legal responsibility to make sure the workplace is safe and respectful. That means:

• Stopping sexual harassment before it happens.
• Acting immediately if it does happen.
• Making sure people who speak up are protected and supported.

This isn’t just about good management – it’s the law, under:

• Sex Discrimination Act 1984 – makes sexual harassment illegal and says workplaces must actively prevent it.
• Work Health and Safety laws – require a workplace to be safe for everyone, including being free from bullying, harassment, and intimidation.
• Fair Work Act 2009 – recognises sexual harassment as serious workplace misconduct and gives workers the right to take action.

What this means for you:

• You have the right to feel safe and respected at work.
• If you experience sexual harassment, it’s not “just part of the job” – it’s against the law.
• Your employer must take it seriously, investigate, and make changes to keep everyone safe.

You’re protected from being punished or sidelined for speaking up.

Support with Workplace Matters

Working Women Queensland is a free, confidential & supportive service to help vulnerable women seeking help with work matters.
Free call: 1800 358 511 (9-4 weekdays)
Visit website >>

Australian Human Rights Commission – 1300 656 419 | humanrights.gov.au

Fair Work Commission – 1300 799 675 | fairwork.gov.au

Safe Work Australia – safeworkaustralia.gov.au (links to each state and territory regulator)