Media release - 11 December 2006

TAKING YOUR CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS TOO FAR MAY RESULT IN MORE THAN HANG–OVER

Just because it’s called the silly season doesn’t mean your behaviour has to be.

Having a few drinks and deciding to kiss the person you’ve always fancied at the office Christmas party, embarrassing them with a sexually explicit Secret Santa gift, telling jokes about a particular race or religion, can all be breaches of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991.

It can also leave both the perpetrator and their employer liable to pay compensation to the person they offended.

Queensland Anti-Discrimination Commissioner Susan Booth says the Christmas-New Year period for many businesses is a time when staff look forward to winding down in preparation for the holiday break.

'However, it is also a time when everyone needs to be extra vigilant to ensure their behaviour does not breach the law,' she said.

'Employers can and should take steps to avoid the risks of sexual harassment and discrimination in their workplace so that all staff can relax and enjoy the festive season.'

The Commission advises employers to put in place policies relating to sexual harassment and equal opportunity, and make sure their employees are aware of them.

'We would also recommend that employers give their staff a friendly reminder about the dangers of excessive drinking and that it can lead to unwanted or aggressive behaviour,' Ms Booth said.

For further comment contact Susan Booth
telephone: 07) 3247 0901 or TTY 1300 130 680