Discrimination at work – what can you do?

Discrimination is treating someone unfairly because they happen to belong to a particular group of people.

 

In NSW many types of discrimination are against the law. Discrimination laws help give everyone an equal opportunity or a 'fair go'.

 

The following types of discrimination are illegal:

 

Carers' responsibilities - you need to care for or support a child or other 'immediate family member'.

 

Sex - you are a woman or because you are a man. Discrimination against a woman because she is pregnant can also be sex discrimination. Sexual harassment is also against the law.

 

Race – because of your colour, nationality, descent, ethnic or ethno-religious background.

 

Age - people think you are too young or too old for the job.

 

Marital status - you are single, married or living in a de facto relationship.

 

Homosexual or lesbian - you are gay or lesbian or someone thinks you are gay or lesbian.

 

Disability - you have a disability, had one in the past or may have one in the future, or someone thinks you have a disability. This includes physical, intellectual and psychiatric disabilities, learning and emotional disorders.

 

Transgender - you are transgender (you live or seek to live as a member of the opposite gender (sex) to your birth gender) or others think you are transgender.

 

By relation or association - the sex, race, age, marital status, homosexuality/lesbianism, transgender (trans-sexuality) or disability of one of your relatives, friends or work colleagues.

 

Need help?

 

If you are being discriminated against – contact the Anti-Discrimination Board (ADB) for advice and help on 9268 5544 or 1800 670 812 (for rural and regional NSW callers) or for young women visit Sex Discrimination Act (HREOC).

 

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