Submission regarding the National Inquiry into Sexual Harassment in Australian Workplaces
FECCA’s submission to the National Inquiry into Sexual Harassment in Australian Workplaces highlights the disproportionate vulnerability of Culturally And Linguistically Diverse (CALD) workers to sexual harassment due to factors such as insecure employment, visa-related dependencies, language barriers, and limited knowledge of workplace rights. FECCA emphasises that these workers often hold precarious jobs in industries with higher harassment rates, such as hospitality, retail, and healthcare. The submission critiques the inadequacy of current data collection and surveys, which fail to fully represent CALD workers’ experiences due to language and cultural barriers. FECCA calls for improved survey methodologies, including plain language and culturally appropriate translations, and targeted research to address these gaps.
To combat workplace sexual harassment, FECCA recommends systemic changes such as accessible complaints mechanisms, culturally sensitive education on workers’ rights, and adequate interpreter services in high-risk industries. The submission also advocates for measures to address power imbalances exacerbated by visa and employment conditions. FECCA underscores the importance of leveraging community and ethno-specific channels to raise awareness and provide information about workplace laws and rights, ensuring CALD workers feel supported in reporting harassment and accessing redress mechanisms. These changes aim to foster equitable and safer workplaces for all Australians.
