Despite increasing awareness of the negative effects of various forms of discrimination, it’s still a major problem in Australian workplaces. Although it’s not the most common issue, sexual orientation discrimination can have severe impacts if not dealt with fast and correctly.
Those suffering from discrimination due to their sexual orientation are likely to suffer from mental health problems including depression, anxiety, insomnia and more. Fortunately, though, you are protected from all forms of discrimination under Australian law.
In the rest of this article, we’ve explored some of the best strategies for overcoming workplace gender discrimination. Read these carefully, and remember – it’s never too late to seek professional legal and medical help if you need to.
- Tell People that There’s a Problem
It’s important that you never just accept workplace gender or sexual orientation discrimination as the norm. Instead, make people aware of the problem. In many cases, this will be the only step you need to take.
For example, if you feel like your mental health is suffering because of the conduct of one of your coworkers, make sure you tell them. If they don’t listen, take your concerns to your manager or HR department – they are legally obliged to deal with issues like this within the workplace.
In the rare case that your managers don’t address the problem, you will need to seek legal advice. We’d recommend reaching out to your local employment lawyers for more help.
- Don’t Accept Any Form of Discrimination
If you’re accepting discrimination as normal, you’re as much of a problem as the offending person. It’s absolutely crucial to ensure you don’t ever accept sexual orientation discrimination as normal in any way, shape or form. Otherwise, your health will likely suffer.
Instead, embrace who you are as a person. Regardless of your workplace, you should have the freedom to be yourself without having to keep your sexual orientation a secret. Remember this.
- Seek Legal Advice
If you feel like you have been or are suffering from sexual orientation discrimination in the workplace, you should consider taking legal action. You have every right to be happy and comfortable when you’re at work, and sexual orientation discrimination is illegal in every way.
Once you’ve tried to work through things with your managers and the offending coworkers, your only remaining option may be to seek legal advice. You shouldn’t feel bad about doing this, especially if you’ve made every effort to resolve the problems peacefully and amicably.
Remember, though, always seek advice from a qualified legal professional before opening legal proceedings against your employer and/or coworkers.
Final Word
Although many people don’t realise it, sexual orientation discrimination is a major problem in workplaces across Australia. People are regularly discriminated against because of their sexual preferences and gender identity, despite this being completely against the law.
The three strategies outlined above should help you overcome gender and sexual orientation discrimination. Remember, it’s important that you never accept poor treatment as normal. Inform your management and be prepared to take legal action if required.
