Australian Leaders Join Forces as Champions of Change to End Sexual Harassment in Workplace

Male Champions of Change

Preventing and Responding to Sexual Harassment in the WorkplaceA coalition of more than 270 CEO and Board-level leaders have released a new report aimed at ending sexual harassment in the workplace. Male Champions of Change have developed the approach over the past two years, inspired by the National Inquiry into Sexual Harassment in Australian Workplaces, led by Sex Discrimination Commissioner, Kate Jenkins.

They argue that the prevention of sexual harassment should be a key accountability for Boards, CEOs and Executive teams – similar to their occupational health and safety responsibilities. It also recommends people who experience sexual harassment be able to tell their story, in their own words, if and when they choose to.
The Champions of Change call for changes in the management and reporting of sexual harassment cases – particularly when cases involve senior people who hold positions of power. The group recommends proven cases will not result in a quiet departure with a healthy pay-out, and that leaders will not prioritise power, position and financial performance over the health, safety and well-being of their staff.
Media release includes quotes from: Liz Broderick, Founder of Male Champions of Change; James Fazzino, Chair of Manufacturing Australia; Kate Jenkins, Australian Sex Discrimination Commissioner; Tim Reed, President of the Business Council of Australia; David Atkin, outgoing CEO of CBUS and Ian Silk, CEO of AustralianSuper.
/Public Release.