Sexual harassment in the legal profession: An analysis of the current legislative framework

Abstract

This article examines sexual harassment as it affects the legal profession, weighing up the efficacy of the legislative provisions in Australia in the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth) (SDA). The article considers the recommendations for reform made by various reviews in recent years and the 2021 amendments to sexual harassment provisions. Following consideration of the alternate legislative drafting options and analysis of the approach taken in New Zealand, this article concludes that to address the systemic sexual harassment culture in the legal profession, change needs to go beyond the scope anticipated in current legislative amendments.