Article by latest.insure
Workplace harassment remains a critical issue in Australia. While many businesses have developed formal policies, far fewer collect meaningful data.Shockingly, 28% of workplaces in Australia don’t collect any data on sexual harassment occurrences, leaving risks unaddressed and employees vulnerable.
This lack of data impacts the creation of safer work environments, and amplifies legal and reputational risks for businesses.
Explore how your SME can identify data gaps and take actionable steps to address them, safeguarding your people and securing your business’s future.
Current Gaps in Data Collection
The goal is to ensure comprehensive data collection. Here’s how your approach might be falling short, according to the Fair Work Ombudsman and other sources:
Focusing solely on formal complaints
About two-thirds of businesses only track the number of complaints; less than one-third record the gender of complainants and respondents.
Lack of anonymous reporting
Fewer than 70% of workplaces offer this, and it’s vital to address for under-reporting concerns.
Ineffective monitoring of policy outcomes
Inadequate monitoring, reviewing, and evaluating of data collection policies makes it difficult to identify areas for improvement. Involvement from both the CEO and board is essential.
Insufficient training content
Only seven in 10 employers address underlying drivers and contributing factors, resulting in critical gaps in understanding of the root causes and prevention strategies.
Limited insight into intersectional issues
Consider how factors such as race, disability or sexual orientation affect employee experiences. For instance, research shows 77% of LGBTQ young people report experiencing sexual harassment in Australian workplaces. SMEs must collect that demographic information tied to harassment reports, and
Under-reporting due to fear of retaliation
Employees may hesitate to report incidents due to fears of victimisation or concerns that their complaints won’t be taken seriously. This under-reporting results in data that fails to accurately reflect the extent of the issues.
Policies Alone Aren’t Enough
Most businesses (99%) have formal policies addressing sexual harassment, and only 10% proactively set expectations before significant workplace events, such as Christmas parties. These missed opportunities often reduce policies to formalities rather than practical tools for change.For example, only a quarter of CEOs discuss harassment policies during onboarding, and a mere 10% proactively communicate expectations ahead of significant workplace events, such as Christmas parties. These missed opportunities mean that policies often function as formalities rather than practical tools for change.
Leadership Accountability Is Key
Why Data Collection Should Be a Priority
Collecting data on workplace harassment goes beyond compliance—it’s essential for prevention. Robust data practices enable businesses to:
- Identify the trends and root causes of harassment.
- Customise training programs to address particular issues.
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of existing policies, and
- Bolster trust by demonstrating transparency and accountability.
Without this information, businesses risk legal claims, reputational harm, and weakened staff morale. Sound data practices, however, can strengthen workplace culture, making it more appealing to attract and retain top talent.
How Insurance Can Support Your Efforts
As your broker or adviser, we help ensure your insurance policies align with the realities of today’s workplace. Management Liability Insurance is a crucial safeguard, protecting against claims related to harassment and discrimination. For broader protection, management liability insurance offers peace of mind by covering legal and reputational costs.While insurance is the backbone of risk management, it’s equally important to address the root causes of workplace harassment. Closing data gaps and strengthening policies allows your business to slash its exposure to risks while fostering a safer, more inclusive environment.
