Queensland Businesses: Time to Act on Workplace Sexual Harassment Policies

A New Era of Workplace Safety in Queensland

Attention, Queensland business owners! The rules have changed, and if you haven't already taken action, now is the time.

As of September 1, 2024, new workplace regulations require all businesses to proactively manage the risks of sexual harassment and sex or gender-based harassment. This means employers can no longer afford to take a "wait and see" approach—prevention is now the name of the game.

So, what does this mean for you? Let’s break it down in a way that won’t make your head spin.

The Key Changes: What You Need to Know

Under the Work Health and Safety (Sexual Harassment) Amendment Regulation 2024, businesses—also known as Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBUs)—are now legally required to:

✅ Proactively identify and manage risks associated with sexual harassment and sex or gender-based harassment in the workplace.

✅ Implement a written Prevention Plan by March 1, 2025, outlining identified risks, control measures, and consultation processes with employees.

✅ Take reasonable steps to ensure a safe and inclusive work environment where employees are protected from harassment before it happens.

In short, it’s no longer enough to react to harassment incidents after they occur. Employers must actively work to prevent them from happening in the first place.

Why This Matters: The Real Impact of Workplace Harassment

Here’s a sobering fact: 1 in 3 Australian workers has experienced sexual harassment in the past five years. Even more concerning, the majority of incidents go unreported, often due to fears of retaliation, career damage, or simply not being taken seriously.

This isn’t just a legal compliance issue—it’s a culture shift. Creating a workplace free from harassment doesn’t just protect your business from potential lawsuits or penalties; it also fosters a more engaged, productive, and positive work environment for everyone.

How to Create Your Prevention Plan

To help businesses stay compliant, WorkSafe Queensland has simplified the process by providing a Prevention Plan Template—so you don’t have to start from scratch. We’ve made everything easier for you!

📥 Download: Prevention Plan Template.

📣 Need help? 👉 Book a free Consultation

🔹 Step 1: Identify Risks – Assess workplace factors like power imbalances, lack of policies, or isolated work settings that could contribute to harassment. 

🔹 Step 2: Implement Controls – Put workplace policies in place, conduct training, and set up clear reporting mechanisms to mitigate risks. 

🔹 Step 3: Consult Your Employees – Involve your team in developing the plan to ensure their concerns are addressed and they feel heard. 

🔹 Step 4: Monitor and Review – Regularly review and improve your plan to ensure it remains effective.

This streamlined approach saves you time and effort—get started today!

The Bottom Line: Don't Wait Until It's Too Late

Change can feel overwhelming, but this is a huge step forward in making Queensland workplaces safer, more inclusive, and legally compliant.

Taking action now will not only ensure that you meet the March 1, 2025 deadline, but it will also demonstrate your commitment to fostering a workplace culture where every employee feels respected and protected.

So, don’t put this off. Download the Prevention Plan Template, start reviewing your workplace policies, and take proactive steps to ensure compliance today. When it comes to workplace safety and respect, prevention is always better than reaction.

📣 Need help? 👉 Book a free Consultation