A key reform of the Anti-Discrimination and Human Rights Legislation Amendment (Respect at Work) Act 2022 was the introduction of a positive duty in the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (SD Act). 

The positive duty requires employers and PCBUs to take reasonable and proportionate measures to eliminate, as far as possible, sex discrimination, sexual harassment, sex-based harassment, behaviours that create a hostile workplace environment on the ground of sex and related acts of victimisation occurring in a work context or in connection with work.

From December 12, 2023, the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) will enforce the new positive duty (for further information see Member Advice NAT 031/23: New Guidelines for complying with Positive Duty).

The Respect@Work & the Positive Duty HR Resource Centre topic contains useful key resources to assist Ai Group Members to understand and comply with their obligations in respect of the positive duty under the SD Act.

Along with the Tools & Templates found below, Members may also be interested in the following Sample Policies that have been updated to include information and guidance related to the positive duty:

Looking for expert advice and support?

Organisations who would like specific advice or support for their business around compliance with the positive duty and/or their obligations under the Respect@Work legislation, can contact Ai Group Workplace Lawyers at info@aigroupworkplacelawyers.com.au or the Workplace Advice Line on 1300 55 66 77. For advice and support on obligations under WHS legislation, please contact Ai Group’s WHS Consulting Services on safety.services@aigroup.com.au or via our website here.

Stay compliant, and up to date

Receive award and compliance advice, without hours of Googling.

Ai Group’s Annotated Awards and WR Handbooks have long been among the services most valued by our members.

The Ai Group Annotated Awards and WR Handbooks provide a simple but comprehensive guide to assist you in meeting your employer obligations.