Sexual Harassment Prevention Plan Training

Claire Harrison, the Managing Director of Harrisons, conducted a session on the new changes to the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 in Queensland, focusing on sexual harassment prevention. The session aimed to inform businesses about the legislative changes, the consequences of non-compliance, and the steps required to comply with the new regulations.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Legislative Changes:
   • The changes to the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 in Queensland are a first in Australia and come into effect on March 1, 2025.
   • These changes include the requirement for businesses to prepare a sexual harassment prevention plan.
   • The legislation now expressly includes sexual harassment and sex or gender-based harassment within the broader category of psychosocial risks.
2. Consequences of Non-Compliance:
   • Non-compliance can result in significant penalties, including civil penalties and criminal convictions for board members and executives.
   • Each failure to prepare, implement, or review a prevention plan can result in fines of up to $9,678.
   • There are also potential reputational damages and legal consequences under various laws, including the Work Health and Safety Act, Discrimination Act, and Fair Work Act.
3. Requirements for Compliance:
   • Businesses must prepare and implement a written sexual harassment prevention plan.
   • The plan must include identified risks, control measures, consultation details, and procedures for dealing with reports of unsafe conduct.
   • The plan must be reviewed regularly, at least every three years, or when a new risk or case arises.
4. Steps to Take Now:
   • Learn about the nature, drivers, and impacts of sexual harassment in the workplace.
   • Conduct a risk assessment and identify specific risks and gaps in current policies.
   • Provide training to people leaders and return-to-work coordinators.
   • Develop and implement a comprehensive sexual harassment prevention plan.
5. Harrisons’ Assistance Packages:
   • Claire introduced two packages offered by Harrisons to help businesses comply with the new regulations:
     • DIY Package: Includes templates and tools for businesses to develop their own prevention plan.
     • Full-Service Package: Harrisons will conduct the workplace audit, facilitate focus groups and surveys to meet consultation requirements, develop a customised Sexual Harassment Prevention Plan along with an implementation plan, and provide ongoing support and training.

Claire emphasised the importance of proactive measures to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace and offered Harrisons’ support to help businesses meet the compliance deadline. She encouraged attendees to contact Harrisons for assistance and to take advantage of the special offers to meet the 1 March 2025 requirement.

Want to know more? Contact Harrisons

Claire Harrison

Claire Harrison is the Founder and Managing Director of Harrisons, a flourishing HR consulting business that sprouted in 2009 from Claire’s passionate belief that inspiring leaders and superstar employees are the key success factor to any business. With over 20 years’ experience, Claire has worked as a HR Director of multi-national organisations, as a Non-Executive Board Director, and a small business owner. Claire’s corporate career includes working with companies such as BHP, Westpac, Fonterra and Mayne Nickless.