September 24, 2026 
The Fair Work Commission has launched a new Workplace Sexual Harassment Complaint Options Tool to help workers better understand the complaint pathways available to them following an experience of workplace sexual harassment. The interactive tool was developed in collaboration with the Fair Work Ombudsman and the Australian Human Rights Commission and incorporates feedback from Respect@Work member organisations. It was launched on 10 September 2026.
Workplace sexual harassment is unlawful in Australia and may give rise to complaints through workplace relations, anti-discrimination, work health and safety, workers’ compensation or criminal law processes. The Fair Work Commission says the tool was developed to help people navigate what can be a complex complaint system. Different agencies have different roles, timeframes, and available remedies, which can make it difficult for individuals to determine the most appropriate complaint pathway, particularly when dealing with a distressing experience. The tool forms part of the Commission’s broader efforts to improve access to workplace information and support services.
What Is the Workplace Sexual Harassment Complaint Options Tool?
The Workplace Sexual Harassment Complaint Options Tool is an interactive online resource designed to help individuals understand which complaint pathway may be available to them after experiencing workplace sexual harassment. Questions may cover matters such as whether criminal conduct was involved, when the conduct occurred, whether harm or injury has been experienced, and the type of outcome the user is seeking. Based on their responses, the tool provides plain-language information about the options that may be available and the agencies that may be able to assist.
The tool does not determine whether sexual harassment has occurred or provide legal advice. Instead, it helps users understand which complaint pathway may be most appropriate based on their circumstances. Users also do not need to provide detailed information about their experience, allowing them to explore options privately and at their own pace. This approach aligns with the Commission’s trauma-informed practices for handling workplace sexual harassment matters.
What Reporting Options Are Available?
Workplace sexual harassment complaints can be handled by multiple agencies in Australia, each with different eligibility requirements, time limits, processes, powers and potential outcomes. In most circumstances, individuals can only pursue one complaint pathway, making it important to understand their options before taking action.
The tool focuses on national complaint pathways. Additional options may be available under state and territory anti-discrimination or work health and safety legislation.
Depending on the circumstances, the tool may provide information about assistance available through the following agencies:
- Fair Work Commission
- Fair Work Ombudsman
- Australian Human Rights Commission
- State or territory work health and safety regulators
- Workers’ compensation authorities
- Police, where criminal conduct may be involved
The tool also helps users understand the type of support available through each pathway. Depending on the circumstances, this may include reporting an incident, seeking an investigation, obtaining an order to stop ongoing harassment, resolving a matter with an employer or pursuing legal remedies through the courts. Where conduct may constitute a criminal offence, such as physical or sexual assault, stalking or threatening behaviour, the tool directs users to contact police.
What Does This Mean for Employers?
The launch of the tool does not create any new legal obligations for employers. However, it may make it easier for workers to understand and access formal complaint pathways when workplace sexual harassment concerns arise.
Employers also remain subject to the positive duty under the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth) to take reasonable and proportionate measures to eliminate, as far as possible, sexual harassment, sex discrimination and related unlawful conduct.
Employers should continue to maintain appropriate workplace policies, reporting procedures and training programs to address sexual harassment risks and respond appropriately to complaints. A proactive approach can help organisations support employees while reducing potential legal, reputational and workplace culture risks.
Where Can Users Access the tool?
The Workplace Sexual Harassment Complaint Options Tool is available through the Fair Work Commission website and sits alongside the Commission’s broader workplace sexual harassment resources and education materials.
Is the Tool Available Now?
The tool is already available and can be accessed immediately by workers seeking information about workplace sexual harassment complaint pathways.
Disclaimer: This content is provided for general information and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, payroll, financial, accounting, employment, or other professional advice. Readers should obtain advice for their specific circumstances before acting on any information contained in this publication. Law, regulations, and practices may change, and the information may not reflect the most current developments at the time it is read.
