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Media release — 4 May 2007ANTI-DISCRIMINATION COMMISSIONER REMINDS EMPLOYERS TO KEEP THE WORKPLACE FREE OF DISCRIMINATIONOn the eve of Labour Day, employers were reminded to treat workers fairly. Susan Booth, Queensland Anti-Discrimination Commissioner said today, 'Queensland employers still must ensure that their workplaces are free of discrimination and sexual harassment, even though other rights have been limited following the passing of the WorkChoices laws.' Ms Booth added 'The Anti-Discrimination Commission continues to receive complaints from workers where they have been dismissed or treated unfairly on discriminatory grounds. All employers, regardless of their size, must remember they have obligations to comply with the anti-discrimination laws.' 'Every Queensland worker has a right to complain to the Anti-Discrimination Commission if they believe they have been discriminated against or sexually harassed - this even includes casuals, contractors, volunteers as well as full-time and part-time workers,' Ms Booth said. 'We’ve received a number of complaints since the passing of the WorkChoices laws, where the employer has either been unaware or forgotten they are not allowed to discriminate against workers. In the past year the Commission has had a 20% increase in workplace dismissal complaints,' she said. The Commission provides a confidential, impartial and timely complaint resolution process. Over 62% of the complaints are resolved through a conciliation meeting, and most are resolved within three months of the complaint being lodged. The Queensland anti-discrimination laws cover discrimination in employment based on age, race, impairment, sex, family responsibilities, relationship status, pregnancy, parental status, breastfeeding, religious belief, trade union activity, lawful sexual activity, gender identity and sexuality. Ms Booth urged employers put in place policies relating to discrimination and equal opportunity, and to ensure that all employees including their managers and people responsible for hiring and firing are aware of them. For further comment contact Susan Booth Back to list of Media Releases
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