FAQ

"I'm being given a hard time at work and I think it's because I'm gay. I don't know what to do!"

Are you feeling like that?

If you agree that this is happening to you, it sounds like anti-GLBTI harassment and/or discrimination in your workplace.

GLBTI? Problems at work?

From time to time, as GLBTI workers, we may find ourselves having problems at work. WorkersOut! provides the following basic information so that you can look for help if you need it.

Harassment and discrimination based on you being GLBTI,  or being perceived to be GLBTI is illegal.

What is anti-GLBTI harassment/discrimination?

  1. Harassment includes insults, intimidation or ridicule, generally on a repeated and uninvited basis. Discrimination is unfair treatment base on your sexual preference or assumed sexual preference. It can range from an explicit threat to your well-being to an unfunny joke in the lunch room;
  2. GLBTI workers can be subject to many forms of harassment. These include earning less money than someone with the same qualifications and experience as you; missing out on a promotion or being sacked for no other obvious reason other than your sexual (or perceived) preference;
  3. If you are a member of your Union, contact your local Delegate or your Union Organiser. Even if you are not facing problems at work right now, it is always good to be a current member of your Union just in case. Let's face it, people move on in the workplace and while your current boss may be fine with your sexual preference or gender identity, your next boss may be anti-GLBTI.
  4. If you are not a Union member, go over the situation with your union, a trusted friend, work colleague, partner or family friend. This helps you to analyze the situation and can help you decide which incidents were discrimination/harassment and which may have a more innocent explanation;
  5. Write down incidents where you have been harassed or discriminated against. Details should include names, dates , times, settings, conversations and actions. Also, save any emails, notes or other documents that are relevant; and,
  6. Do some research and see what policies and procedures your workplace has to guarantee that your workplace is free of harassment and this might also include the Agreement or Award that you work under. These might be useful when you seek help.

 

Who can help stop anti-GLBTI behaviour at work?

Get help fast! If you're a union member, contact your union. Assistance in issues like GLBTI discrimination in the workplace is one of the issues your union can help you with.

If you're not a member of a Trade Union, contact one of the following:

For NSW laws:

Contact: NSW Anti-Discrimination Board
phone: (02) 9268 or www.lawlink.gov.au/adb

For Federal laws:

Contact: Australian Human Rights Commission
phone: 1300 369 711

Is WorkersOut! a Union?

No. WorkersOut! is not a "Union". WorkersOut! is a collective of Union members who identify as  GLBTI. WorkersOut! participants are volunteers, working together to raise the profile and importance of Union membership across the GLBTI community.

Not only are we GLBTI but, being active union members we believe that only by being active members of our various Trades Unions can we improve the right of GLBTI workers in all industries.

We meet collectively and identify policy change opportunities. When we identify opportunities to contribute to social change, WorkersOut! will make submissions to government and other organisations, aimed at influencing positive change and enhancing the lives of GLBTI workers.

We are encouraging all GLBTI workers to join and become active members in their Union to help improve the pay and working conditions of GLBTI workers. We also have plenty of fun too! We march in every Mardi Gras parade and welcome any GLBTI [friendly] Union member to come along and march with us!

What is a Union and what does it do?

A Union is an organisation of workers who act collectively to provide mutual protection and help for its members. Unions represent their members in dealings with employers and governments.

Unions provide information and help to members on:

  • organising workplaces so that workers can get a better deal (e.g. a wage increase);
  • wages and conditions of employment (e.g. annual or maternity leave);
  • represent members in performance and disciplinary matters in the workplace, including unfair dismissals; and,
  • fair treatment in the workplace, including one free from discrimination by managers or other workers.

How can I find out which Union to join?

Unions have peak bodies that can help you. Contact them with the name of your employer and the sort of work you do.

Working in NSW?

If you work in NSW you can contact UnionsNSW on:
(02) 9881 5999 or
mail@unionsnsw.org.au

Outside NSW try the ACTU

Unions Australia is a new online membership and advice service for working Australians. They can help if you have a question about your rights and entitlements. Or if you want to join a union it is now easier than ever. Whether you work in a large or small business and no matter what kind of job you do, there is a union to represent you.

More information is available at the Unions Australia website. It's easy to join your union online. To join your union over the phone call 1300 486 466.

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