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Law Council seeks amendments to Sex Discrimination Act
In response to Dyson Heydon’s sexual harassment news, the Law Council of Australia has called on the government to amend the Sex Discrimination Act.
Naomi Neilson
The directors of the Law Council of Australia have unanimously called on the federal government to amend the Sex Discrimination Act to close the “loopholes” and ensure that victims of sexual harassment in the workplace can be protected with the extensive legislative framework that extends to barristers and statutory office holders.
“For the good of the legal profession, the standing of a judicial arm of government and for the communities we serve [the law needs to change]. The time has come for a robust and transparent process that can consider complaints against judicial officers, whether they relate to allegations of negligence, capacity or misbehaviour,” Ms Wright said.
Unanimous endorsement by the directors was given to the Law Council to convene a national roundtable to bring together relevant decision-makers across the country and share best practices and programs to address sexual harassment in the workplace.
Other actions affirmed by the Law Council directors include prioritising the development of protocols relating to the standards of judicial behaviour in the courtroom.
“The attrition of women lawyers is high, and experiences of sexual harassment are a key reason why women leave the law. This is damaging and costly – for individuals, for firms and for the current and future standing of the legal profession,” said Ms Wright.
“The Law Council is committed to ensuring a diverse and inclusive profession which facilitates a positive experience for all members, and which thereby delivers quality services and justice.”
Naomi Neilson
Naomi Neilson is a senior journalist with a focus on court reporting for Lawyers Weekly.
You can email Naomi at:
