Kirra’s manager comments on her looks and tries to kiss her
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The incidents portrayed in this story are inspired by real complaints received by the Commission, but all names and other identifying details have been changed. The photo above is a stock photo, posed by a model.
‘He made me feel so uncomfortable at work. I was so happy with my job but not long after he grabbed me, I had to quit.’
Kirra was happily working as a shop assistant. A new manager started in the shop and he was very friendly towards her.
The new manager would comment on how beautiful she looked and her ‘sexy legs’. Kirra felt awkward and uncomfortable when he commented on her looks and ignored him and continued to do her work.
The manager continued to leer at her and asked her to have drinks with him after work. Kirra told him she had a boyfriend. Not long after, when working alone at the back of the store, the manager came up from behind her, grabbed her hips and tried to kiss her.
Kirra was upset and left work and rang the owner of the store to complain. Rumours spread within the workplace that she was having an affair with the manager. Kirra resigned from her job as she was distraught by what had occurred to her.
How does the law apply to Kirra’s situation?
The Equal Opportunity Act 2010 makes sexual harassment against the law in certain areas of public life, including at work.
Employers have a positive duty to provide a safe workplace and to take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment at work.
Sexual harassment is unwelcome sexual behaviour that causes a person to feel offended, humiliated, or intimidated, where a reasonable person could have anticipated that reaction in the circumstances.
Kirra could make a complaint of sexual harassment and victimisation against the manager and her employer.
Are you in a similar situation?
You can start by contacting us with your enquiry or complaint – we will then take you through your rights and options.
We can listen to your story and provide you with information about your rights under our laws.
We have staff specifically trained to support Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people make enquiries and complaints.
When you contact us, we will ask if you identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander so that we can provide you an inclusive and culturally appropriate service.
You can also choose to speak directly to an Aboriginal staff member.
You can contact us by:
- Phone: 1300 292 153 – weekdays from 9 am – 4 pm
- Email: Send us an email with your issue and whether you would like to speak with an Aboriginal staff member
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- Online complaint form
- Letter: VEOHRC, Level 3, 204 Lygon Street Carlton Victoria 3053
This is our tailored approach for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Victorians. Read more about these services.
