Equality across the board: sexual harassment reporting in the ASX200

The Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) has released a report Equality across the board that provides an insight into the collection and reporting of data relating to sexual harassment across ASX200 companies. 8.4% of companies in the ASX200 are in the health sector.

Less than one-fifth of companies surveyed recognised that the board has primary responsibility and accountability to prevent and respond to sexual harassment in the workplace.

Gender equality was a priority for the majority of respondents (94%), who indicated they have policies and strategies in place to support gender equality in recruitment. Over 60% of respondents had set targets to increase representation of women on their governing body. Gender diverse boards tend to implement stronger governance for the prevention and response to sexual harassment.

The report recommends that boards focus on oversight of prevention of as well as response to sexual harassment. Boards should take responsibility for ensuring the company has in place a governance framework for sexual harassment, and ensuring employees are aware of this information. Leaders must also demonstrate commitment to gender equality and prevention of sexual harassment.

The report also highlights actions investors can take to manage financial risks associated with workplace sexual harassment.

Australian Human Rights Commission, Equality across the board: Investing in workplaces that work for everyone (2021).