Media Release
'Tis the season to prevent workplace sexual harassment
Businesses urged to be vigilant during the 'silly season'
SYDNEY, November 25, 2009: Australian businesses are being urged to be more vigilant about preventing sexual
harassment and bullying in the workplace during the Christmas party season when alcohol and pent-up grievances could
prove a heady mix.
According to The Resolution Centre, which specialises in conflict resolution, sexual harassment investigation and mediation,
there are more likely to be sexual harassment claims around the Christmas and New Year's period.
"When putting on Christmas parties, some companies are aware of the legislation and their legal responsibilities when it
comes to sexual harassment and bullying, but it's important to be proactive in averting any potential claims," says The
Resolution Centre managing director, Katherine Graham.
"For example, companies should be communicating clearly to staff the appropriate standards of behavior during work
functions, preferably via written communication."
However, Graham says there are many small-to-medium businesses that have no policies in place for codes of conduct,
complaints handling and disciplining staff.
"Businesses need to understand legislation and have in place office guidelines that set out acceptable behavior and work
practices," she adds.
"There are still many businesses that don’t have these human resources structures, so conflict happens and conflict
escalates, and by the time we're asked to come in and mediate, the proverbial has already hit the fan with the conflict
rippling throughout the entire company, affecting morale and the business’s reputation."
Media contact and interviews: Managing director of The Resolution Centre and The Human Resources Centre, Katherine Graham, is
available for media interviews and background information. Graham has more than 15 years’ experience in human resources, including
employment law, conflict management, investigation and mediation. To arrange an interview or for further information, including case studies,
please contact media relations on 0402 39 49 53.
About The Human Resources Centre: The Human Resources Centre is an Australian owned and operated human resources consultancy,
offering a wide range of services in all areas of HR management, including strategic, operational, legal, training and payroll functions.
With offices in each capital city, The Human Resources Centre assists organisations in areas such as: review of their HR structures and
practices, compliance with workplace laws; workplace relations and mediation; recruitment, remuneration and performance management;
staff training and development; occupational health and safety; payroll management and organisational culture.
The Human Resources Centre also operates The Resolution Centre, a specialist division advising on workplace conflict, mediation and
employment law, and The Managed Payroll Centre, which offers outsourced payroll services.
NEWS 
