Fair Work Commission demands to reschedule anti-sexual harassment orders

Australia's national workplace relations tribunal, The Fair Work Commission, has approached the government to put off the implementation of Anti-sexual harassment orders for at least two months. The appeal put forth by the FWC caters to a predictable estimated hike in the number of sexual harassment complaints and less availability of funds at the same time. The FWC believes the implementation of anti-sexual harassment orders in the present scenario might impede the functioning of the department and lead to inefficiency in work.

The new law regime intends to include sexual harassment orders under the FWC's anti-bullying authority. However, the Fair Work Commission believes the contrary, stating that the said law regime would necessitate intensive case management and well-timed resolution of applications to cater to the demands and to evade any foreseeable harm.

The Fair Work Commission is using the grounds enumerated under Respect@Work Bill to postpone the execution of anti-sexual harassment laws. The Australian Government has repeatedly refused to postpone the execution of the anti-sexual harassment regime, calling it an urgent reform. 

Tony Burke, Labor’s industrial relations spokesperson, addressing the gravity of the situation stated: “The Fair Work Commission has now made it clear:  Morrison has failed to actually deliver the necessary funding to make sure complaints can be properly dealt with".

A spokesperson for the Industrial Relations Minister, Michaelia Cash, said, “We will continue to monitor its output after the passage of this legislation and will consider additional funding if and when necessary”.