In 2019 the Board and Commissioner are embarking on a long-term program focussing on addressing sexual harassment within the legal profession.

Research done by the Australian Human Rights Commission shows that one in five Australians were sexually harassed in the workplace in the past 12 months. We know the legal profession is not immune to such behaviour.

This is inexcusable, particularly since the profession holds such an important leadership position within the justice system and society in general. Employers have a responsibility to ensure their workplaces are free of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment by lawyers is also capable of constituting professional misconduct.

The Board and Commissioner have released a statement clearly articulating our position: that sexual harassment is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. That statement can be downloaded on this page, see below.

We call on leaders in the profession to stand with us to call out inappropriate behaviour and ensure all colleagues and employees have a safe environment with equal opportunities to succeed in their careers.

If you wish to discuss a matter confidentially, or make a complaint relating to sexual harassment by a lawyer, please contact harassmentcomplaints@lsbc.vic.gov.au