Pathways to act (internal & external)
Internal
- Report to your supervisor/manager, HR, or a Health and Safety Representative.
- Follow your workplace policy; put your complaint in writing with specific examples, dates, quotes and witnesses.
External
- WHS regulator: Report to your state/territory authority (e.g., SafeWork NSW, WorkSafe QLD/WA/Vic, NT WorkSafe, SafeWork SA, WorkSafe ACT, WorkSafe Tasmania). Regulators may investigate whether the employer is taking proper measures.
- Workers’ compensation: If you’ve suffered injury (including psychological injury), discuss a claim with your GP/treating practitioners; medical certificates are required.
- Human rights/anti‑discrimination commissions: Australian Human Rights Commission (1300 369 711, infoservice@humanrights.gov.au) and state/territory bodies handle complaints, including sexual harassment and victimisation.
- Fair Work Commission: Apply for a Stop Sexual Harassment Order (requires ongoing risk). The FWC can also deal with general protections disputes where adverse action follows raising a workplace right.
- Police: Consider reporting criminal conduct (Police Assistance Line 131 444). If in immediate danger call 000.
Jurisdiction caution: If you lodge a complaint in a human rights/discrimination body you may be barred from pursuing the same matter simultaneously in the FWC. Seek advice before choosing a pathway.