Gendered violence is an OHS issue.

admin • November 27, 2024

Work-related gendered violence is any behaviour, directed at any person, or that affects a person, because of their sex, gender or sexual orientation, or because they do not adhere to socially prescribed gender roles, that creates a risk to health and safety.


But what does it actually look like?


Work-related gendered violence can range in severity. It might include things like:

·        Indecent phone calls

·        Offensive language or images

·        Sexually explicit social media, text messages or emails

·        Repeated or inappropriate advances

·        Rude gestures, staring or intimidation

·        Put downs, ostracism or exclusion

·        Sexually suggestive comments or jokes

·        Unwelcome touching, hugging or cornering

·        Intrusive questions

·        Physical assault including sexual assault and rape

·        Sexual harassment

·        Verbal abuse

·        Stalking

·        Being undermined in your work or position


Work-related violence and sexual harassment can cause physical and/or mental injury – this is an Occupational Health and Safety Issue. Like all OHS issues, we need to prevent them by:

1.     Identifying the hazards and assessing the risks

2.     Implementing  measures to eliminate or control the risks

3.     Review the effectiveness of control measures


For more information on work-related gendered violence and how to control this hazard, take a look at the guidance material at: Gendered violence | WorkSafe Victoria.



If you require additional assistance or information on accessing information please contact BeSafe.

International Workers Memorial Day

By admin • May 5, 2026
On 28 April 2026 , BeSafe joined those gathered at Argyle Square, Carlton , to mark International Workers’ Memorial Day (IWMD) in Melbourne. The ceremony honoured those who have lost their lives due to workplace injury or illness and renewed a shared commitment to safer, healthier workplaces. The service began with speeches made by The Secretary of Victorian Trades Hall Council (VTHC) Luke Hilikari, Premier Jacinta Allen, WorkSafe CEO Cathy Henderson and Lived Experience Advocate Lana Cormie. Assistant Secretary of VTHC Wil Stracke was the MC for the occasion and the Trade Union Choir sang throughout. The most moving part of the service was, as always, the boot laying ceremony. This year, 60 pairs of boots were laid to represent the workers lost in the past 12 months. Finally, a rose was laid to represent those who are not counted - in recognition that the numbers are vastly underestimated and many workplace deaths are not recorded in the official statistics. The vision of 60 pairs of boots sitting upon stools in the park is profoundly tragic and deeply moving. A minutes silence marked the moment. This was followed by attendees laying wreaths to honour the fallen workers. The speeches included messages of regret and sorrow, but also a call to action – as we can only truly honour the dead if we take action to ensure the safety of the workers of the future.  “ Honour the dead, and fight like hell for the living .” At BeSafe, we are passionate about workers’ safety and we will continue to do anything we can to improve the safety of all Victorian workplaces. For more on this: Strong union message at workers’ memorial — Independent Education Union Victoria Tasmania STRONG MESSAGE TO COMMEMORATE FALLEN WORKERS ON IWMD - OHS Reps

BeSafe Victoria Launches Psychological Health Training

By admin • April 21, 2026
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