Equal workers

The WE'RE EQUAL logo identifies businesses that share our vision for an inclusive community.

Working for a WE'RE EQUAL business means that its owners have signed a Statement of Commitment to provide a safe work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment.

Workers can support equality through their own actions.

Tips for workers

We have developed some ideas for what you can do if you witness or experience disrespectful behaviour in the workplace.

Stand up and speak up against discrimination and harassment, because staying silent says that the behaviour is ok.

If you see a problem situation there are things you can do to help.

Assess the situation

Is it safe for you to intervene?
Are there people around who could be allies to help?
Make eye contact with people around you to gain their support.

Distract

Approach the victim with a reason for them to leave – tell them they need to take a call, or that you need to tell them something – anything to get them away safely.

Say something

Talk calmly.
Tell the person picking on the victim that’s it’s not ok.
Ask the victim if they need help.
Do this as a group if you can.

Delay

Wait until the situation has calmed down and ask the victim if they are ok or need help.

Report

Call Security if you’re at a venue, or report the event to HR or a manager if you’re at work.
Stay objective and provide as much detail as possible.

If things turn violent or abusive

Don't put yourself at risk by intervening in violence – call the police on triple zero (000)

You have a right to work in an environment free from discrimination and harassment. There are many different laws that offer workers protections.

If you are experiencing disrespectful behaviour at work there are reporting options available to you:

talk with your supervisor, manager, HR or WHS rep
talk with your union (advice and support)
seek legal advice
contact SafeWork SA (about workplace health and safety risks, including psychological safety)
contact the Fair Work Commission (sexual harassment, bullying, industrial disputes)
contact the South Australia Police (sexual assault)
make an informal complaint using an Equal Opportunity reporting tool:
- letter templates you can send to the venue
- Disability Access Reporting Tool (DART) to email your concerns directly to the business
- Anti-Discrimination Register to alert the business of a discrimination issue
submit a formal complaint to Equal Opportunity SA

Counsellors are available through the following services:

Lifeline - 131 114 (24 hours, personal crisis service)
1800Respect - 1800 737 732 (sexual violence service)
Yarrow Place - 1800 817 421 (rape and sexual assault service)
MensLine Australia - 1300 789 978 (men's service)
QLife - 1800 184 527 (LGBTQI service)
BeyondBlue - 1300 224 636 (depression, anxiety and suicide prevention service)

You may also have access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through your work.