Whether your business is big or small, you need to take reasonable steps to prevent discrimination and harassment. A written policy is a good way of ensuring your staff understand what is required.
Keep the policy short and simple. Employer groups, similar businesses and the Equal Opportunity Commission may help with the content. Your policy should explain:
- why you support equal opportunity, listing the benefits to service and productivity
- that discrimination, sexual harassment, bullying and victimisation are against the law
- staff and employer responsibilities and rights
- where people can go for help
- the complaint procedure
- that people will be disciplined for breaching the policy.
Code of conduct
Employers should also consider developing a code of conduct that outlines the behaviour expected of staff. In a very small business where the owner has regular contact with everyone, a code of conduct may be more appropriate than a full policy.
More information