About Sex Discrimination
The Sex Discrimination Act 1984 protects individuals across Australia from discrimination on the basis of sex, marital status or pregnancy and, in relation to employment, family responsibilities. The Act also makes sexual harassment against the law.
The Act gives effect to Australia’s obligations under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, which the federal Government ratified in July 1983.
A plain language Guide to Sex Discrimination Act is available on this page.
The Sex Discrimination Commissioner works to address discrimination, sexual harassment and other barriers to equality by reviewing legislation, conducting research and providing policy advice on key issues.
Some of the issues examined recently by the Commissioner include the work-family balance, paid maternity leave, equal pay, sexual harassment in the workplace and the trafficking of women.
The Commissioner makes submissions to Parliamentary and other inquiries, gives speeches and undertakes various education programs to build community awareness and support different groups, such as employers, to meet their legal responsibilities.
The Commissioner may also be invited to provide assistance in matters before the Federal Court and the Federal Magistrates Service relating to sex discrimination.
Elizabeth Broderick was appointed Sex Discrimination Commissioner in 2007.
