New Tools to Tackle Gender-Based Violence Risks in Construction

Safe Work Australia has launched a suite of practical resources to support construction employers to better identify, assess and manage the risks of gender-based violence on worksites. These tools include real-world case studies, posters and infographics that can be displayed and discussed on site as part of day-to-day WHS practices and toolbox talks.

Gender-based violence refers to behaviour that humiliates, intimidates or threatens a person because of their sex, gender, sexual orientation, or because they do not conform to gender stereotypes. It can involve physical violence, sexual harassment, verbal abuse, bullying, and offensive language or conduct, and is recognised as a psychosocial (mental health) hazard under work health and safety laws.

While gender-based violence can occur in any workplace, some conditions in the construction sector can heighten the risk if not effectively controlled. Contributing factors may include a male‑dominated, young or transient workforce, high job demands and pressure, and organisational or environmental issues such as low job support, poor supervision and isolated or remote work environments.

The new materials were developed in consultation with construction industry stakeholders to ensure they reflect the specific WHS challenges faced by women and gender-diverse workers in construction. They are designed to improve awareness of how gender-based violence can present on construction sites, the impact these behaviours have on workers and productivity, and the legal duties of persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs) to eliminate or minimise these risks so far as is reasonably practicable.

Employers are encouraged to integrate these resources into their existing WHS management systems, Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) and workplace policies, including those dealing with bullying, harassment and psychosocial hazards. Clear reporting pathways, prompt response procedures, and regular training should be embedded into organisational policies and procedures. Where needed, businesses can consider adopting or updating formal WHS policies and procedures, such as those available from specialist providers like Bluesafe, to ensure gender-based violence risks are systematically addressed.

Accessing and using the new resources is an important step towards creating safer, more inclusive construction workplaces where harmful behaviours are not tolerated and workers feel supported to speak up. Incorporating these tools into site inductions, pre-start meetings and ongoing consultation processes will help duty holders demonstrate due diligence in preventing and managing gender-based violence risks.

Safe Work Australia is not a regulator and cannot provide advice on specific WHS incidents or compliance matters. For workplace-specific assistance, contact your state or territory work health and safety regulator.

In addition to WHS obligations, other legal and support pathways may apply in cases of gender-based violence, including:

- The police – to report criminal conduct such as attempted or actual sexual assault.
- The Australian Human Rights Commission or your state or territory human rights agency – for discrimination and harassment matters.
- The Fair Work Commission – for workplace dispute resolution and relevant applications.
- The Fair Work Ombudsman – for workplace rights and entitlements advice.
- The National Mental Health Commission – for information on organisations providing mental health support.
- 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) – for confidential counselling and support related to sexual, domestic and family violence.

By proactively using these new Safe Work Australia resources and embedding strong WHS management practices, the construction industry can take meaningful steps to prevent gender-based violence and protect workers’ psychological and physical safety.