What Is Sexual Harassment? A Warm, Empowering Guide for Healing & Safety 🌸
- dannimurfett
- Jul 16
- 2 min read
Sexual harassment is never just “harmless banter.” It’s a violation of personal boundaries and trust that can profoundly affect your mental and emotional wellbeing. At Sexual Trauma Counselling Perth, we believe everyone has the right to feel safe and respected—especially at work.
↪️ What Are the Signs of Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment includes any unwanted sexual conduct that leaves you feeling offended, humiliated, or intimidated.
It’s not about intent—it’s about how it makes you feel. Even one incident or something witnessed can count as harassment
🏢 Workplace Protections: Laws & Employer Duties in Australia
1. Sex Discrimination Act 1984
Sexual harassment at work is illegal under this Act. It covers employees, contractors, volunteers—anyone in work-related roles.
2. Fair Work Act (since March 6, 2023)
Amendments now explicitly prohibit sexual harassment “in connection with work”, extending to future workers and self-employed individuals. Employers can be held liable unless they show they took all reasonable steps to prevent it.
3. Psychologically Safe Workplace Duty
Under Work Health and Safety regulations, employers must proactively prevent workplace sexual harassment. This includes effective policies, reporting systems, risk assessments, training, and swift resolution—ensuring everyone feels valued and secure.
4. Fair Work Commission Orders
You can seek a Stop Sexual Harassment Order through the Commission, offering resolution and potential.
💚 Why Counselling Matters
Experiencing sexual harassment can trigger:
Anxiety, depression, shame, guilt
Sleep and concentration issues
Difficulty trusting others or engaging at work or socially
Our offerings at Sexual Trauma Counselling Perth include EMDR, CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care to help you:
Validate your experience and explore its effects
Build emotional resilience and coping strategies
Reclaim your sense of safety, control, and wellbeing
📚 Free Online Training: Respect@Work
Empower yourself and your workplace by completing the free online mini-courses from the Respect@Work platform—designed to raise awareness and foster respectful work environments
Courses cover:
What constitutes sexual harassment
How to respond and support others
Legal rights and responsibilities at work
🛠️ Practical Steps You Can Take
Document what happened—dates, details, people involved
Report to HR, a trusted manager, or a union rep
Seek support—from counsellors, lawyers, or advocacy groups
Comprehend your options—whether legal (Fair Work Commission, AHRC) or workplace-based
Engage in counselling—we’re here for you, every step of the way
📞 Ready to Connect?
We offer in-person sessions in Subiaco and secure telehealth across WA, tailored to your pace and comfort.
📞 0422 819 654
📧 danni@sexualtraumacounsellingperth.com
Sexual harassment isn’t your fault—and you deserve to feel safe, heard, and respected. Whether you're looking for healing, clarity, or support, we’re here to guide you with compassion and understanding.
With care and empowerment,
Danni Murfett
Sexual Trauma Counselling Perth
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