After years of union campaigning, it will now be easier cost-wise for victim-survivors of workplace sexual harassment to pursue legal action against perpetrators.

With the passing of the Cost Protections Bill into law, the risk of being burdened with the other side’s legal costs has been largely removed. This has been one of the main deterrents that victim-survivors face when considering court action. Victim-survivors of workplace sexual harassment now have a fair chance to seek justice without the fear of financial ruin holding them back. (It appears that in the future it will only be in certain limited circumstances regarding vexatious or unreasonable proceedings that an applicant may be ordered to pay a respondent’s costs).

This marks a significant strengthening of rights for people who have been harassed and discriminated against at work.

Currently, only 1 in 230,000 victim-survivors of workplace sexual harassment bring proceedings to an Australian court.

No worker should be priced out of justice when they have experienced sexual harassment and discrimination.

This new law is a massive step forward in holding perpetrators accountable and making workplaces safer for everyone.

Workplace sexual harassment is an issue in healthcare, affecting the safety and well-being of Allied Health Professionals and other healthcare workers. Reports indicate that many workers experience unwanted comments, advances, and other forms of aggravated harassment, contributing to a toxic work environment and impacting patient care.

You should be able to enjoy a safe and just working environment.

VAHPA is continually campaigning to ensure that every Allied Health Professional has a safe, respectful, and just workplace.

We’re stronger together. Join VAHPA and let’s drive change for the better.

Image source: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/posters