Respect@Work

Respect@Work

Committed to a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace for all staff at the University of Sydney.

Respect@Work

Committed to a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace for all staff at the University of Sydney.

The University of Sydney is committed to taking proactive steps to prevent and eliminate all forms of unlawful workplace conduct, including harassment, discrimination, bullying and sexual misconduct.

This commitment has led to the establishment of the Respect@Work Program to foster a safe, respectful and inclusive University community for all staff.

If you have any feedback, please contact us at respect.at-work@sydney.edu.au

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What is Respect at Work?

In 2022, amendments called Respect at Work were made to the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (SDA) (Cth), introducing an enforceable obligation for organisations and businesses to take reasonable and proportionate steps to eliminate the following relevant unlawful conduct, as far as possible:

  • discrimination on the ground of sex in a work context
  • sexual harassment in connection with work
  • sex‐based harassment in connection with work
  • conduct that amounts to subjecting a person to a hostile workplace environment on the ground of sex
  • related acts of victimisation

The Australian Human Rights Commission has labelled this obligation as a positive duty. The University has extended our positive duty beyond sexual harassment and sexual discrimination by making a commitment to taking reasonable and proportionate steps to eliminate all forms of unlawful workplace conduct through our Enterprise Agreement obligations. 

What is the Respect@Work Program?

The Respect@Work Program was established in thorough consultation with staff and stakeholders of the University community to ensure our positive duty is achieved and maintained.

An Action Plan has been developed, outlining strategic deliverables across 2024-26, that fall under the seven standards identified by the Australian Human Rights Commission. 

Leadership

Unequivocal leadership committed to eliminating unlawful and harmful conduct, and its drivers.

Culture

Staff and affiliates experience a safe, inclusive and respectful workplace culture characterised by high trust and integrity.

Knowledge

All leaders, staff and affiliates have up-to-date knowledge about the best way to prevent and respond to relevant unlawful conduct.

Risk management

The University adequately assesses and controls risks relating to relevant unlawful conduct.

Support

The University prioritises the wellbeing, psychosocial safety and justice needs of all people affected by relevant unlawful conduct.

Reporting and response

Relevant unlawful conduct is addressed consistently, and reporting channels are person-centred and trauma-informed, accessible, trusted and lead to varied options for resolution.

Monitoring, evaluation and transparency

The University is transparent regarding relevant unlawful conduct and measures the effectiveness of its actions and initiatives to prevent and respond effectively to it.

The implementation of the Action Plan is being considered through the guiding principles outlined by the Australian Human Rights Commission:

  • Consultation
  • Gender equality
  • Intersectionality
  • Person-centred and trauma-informed.

Learn more