Mining sector sets down code to eradicate sexual harassment

Australia’s mining industry has taken steps to achieve its commitment to eliminate sexual harassment by releasing the Minerals Council of Australia’s (MCA) National Industry Code, which sets clear expectations on MCA member companies to develop a culture of respect while improving support for workers. The Industry Code outlines clear preventative and response measures based on honest, respectful and open communication. MCA member companies will be required to confirm their commitment to eliminating sexual harassment and adopting the Industry Code, and encouraged to include the commitment and code on their websites and intranet sites.

The Industry Code establishes the expectations on companies in developing a culture of respect that empowers individuals to raise concerns in a supportive and protected way. A consistent national approach enables all employers and workers to have the same expectations for respectful workplaces, regardless of their location, job, gender or seniority. Prevention measures focus on culture and governance, awareness and education, leadership and working environments. Response measures include creating an environment where raising concerns and reporting incidents is welcomed and encouraged; providing adequate support and protection to affected persons; and understanding how an incident occurred, why prevention measures in place were not effective and how they may be strengthened.

The MCA will release a resource toolkit including fact sheets, guidance and templates to support member companies’ implementation of the code.

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