A recent survey of female scientists, engineers and managers has found workplace culture is compromising the effectiveness of HR policies, and preventing highly skilled workers from advancing their careers.
Managers that genuinely want women to succeed in their careers often hinder their progress without even realising it, says emberin CEO and gender diversity expert Maureen Frank.
Sex Discrimination Commissioner Elizabeth Broderick has called for greater powers to proactively investigate workplaces and sectors where sexual harassment is prevalent, instead of relying solely on complaints.
A NSW employer that allegedly told a worker to "bear the consequences" of her "inconvenient" pregnancy, is facing fines of up to $231,000 following the launch of the Fair Work Ombudsman's first pregnancy discrimination case.
When employers are convinced that a worker's claim against them is totally without merit, they should consider defending themselves "as a matter of principle", says Minter Ellison partner Richard West.
HR managers could be found personally liable for bullying and harassment at work, under the national OHS framework, if they fail to take steps to prevent it, according to Hicksons Lawyers partner Brad Swebeck.
There are few legal risks linked to banning 'body art' at work, but employers should ensure policies are relevant to the workplace and consistently applied, says workplace lawyer Brad Petley.
Employers should be aware of the potential for "back door" discrimination and other claims under the Fair Work Act's adverse action provisions, say employment lawyers Lisa Berton and Nick Noonan.
Fair Work Australia's first ruling on an adverse action claim sends a strong message to employers that they must "meticulously" document the reasons behind every decision that affects employees, says employment lawyer Lisa Berton.
The number of employers cited in the Federal Government's 2010 employer of choice for women list has dropped to 95, down from 111 last year and 99 in 2008.
The laws around engaging casual and contract workers have changed drastically this year. Understand how this affects your organisation by attending this HR Daily webinar.
From August, employees will have a legislated right to disconnect from work. Understand what this means for your organisation by watching this HR Daily Premium webcast.
