The stages and processes involved in resolving complaints of discrimination and harassment against employees are outlined in the Discrimination, Bullying and Harassment Complaints Against Employees Procedure and the Discrimination and Harassment Complaint Resolution Schedule.
A flowchart of the complaint resolution process for discrimination and harassment related complaints (including sexual harassment) is also available.
There are separate complaint resolution stages and processes to be followed depending upon the nature of the complaint. Normally, in resolving complaints of discrimination, bullying and harassment the University applies a three stage process:
- Stage 1 Initial Action
- Stage 2 Further Advice and Assistance
- Stage 3 Investigation.
Stages 1 and 2 are informal processes. Stage 3 is a formal process and will normally only be used when the matter cannot be resolved informally. It involves the making of a written formal complaint after which an investigation of the allegation of discrimination, bullying or harassment occurs and an outcome is then imposed on the parties. Normally, all complaints will be progressed through each of the complaint resolution stages and processes.
At any time an informal complaint may progress straight to the Human Resources department if the allegations pose an immediate risk to the health, safety or wellbeing of any University member or involve alleged criminal activity by an employee.
Complaints made against an employee will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and may be referred to the Director (Human Resources) at Stage 2 or Stage 3, depending on the nature and seriousness of the complaint.
Where the complaint involves offences under the Criminal Code such as sexual assault, rape, indecent exposure, stalking or obscene communication which has occurred on University property or through University resources, the individual will be informed of their right to report the matter to the police and will be provided with information on the nearest sexual assault service.
The University takes all Complaints seriously and every effort will be made to provide support and assistance to individuals as required. Obligations of managers, supervisors, employees, students and individuals are outlined below:
Manager/supervisor
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Employees, students, individuals
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