Sexual assault and sexual harassment information for the resources industry

Sexual assault or sexual harassment in any form is unacceptable and must not be tolerated anywhere, including in our workplaces. Resources Safety & Health Queensland (RSHQ) is regulating against the risks of psychosocial hazards, including sexual assault, as part of our responsibilities to worker safety and health.

Making a report to RSHQ

If you are in immediate danger or your health and wellbeing is being threatened, contact the police on triple zero (phone 000).

If you have been affected by or witnessed sexual assault or sexual harassment at a Queensland mine, quarry, or petroleum or gas operation, you can contact RSHQ to make a report.

RSHQ has a dedicated phone number and team for reports of this nature. Reports can be made anonymously.

To make a report:

RSHQ recognises that it can be distressing sharing details of a traumatic event. Our trained officers aim to create a trauma-sensitive environment where individuals can share their experience in a safe, informed, and flexible way. We also aim to inform and/or connect individuals with accessible and relevant support services.

Advice and support for workers

For workers affected by workplace sexual assault and sexual harassment, the Queensland Regulator Map (PDF, 313KB) provides further information on:

  • specialist support services, including the Workers' Psychological Support Service (WPSS), 1800RESPECT, Lifeline, Beyond Blue, and 13 Yarn
  • the role of different regulatory organisations
  • how each organisation can provide advice and assistance for workers affected by workplace sexual assault and sexual harassment
  • information on how to make a report or complaint relating to workplace sexual assault and sexual harassment
  • resources to assist both workers and employers.

Industry notifications to RSHQ

To notify RSHQ of a sexual assault or sexual harassment incident(s) or ask whether RSHQ should be notified of a particular incident, contact 1300 581 077 or email complaints@rshq.qld.gov.au

What is sexual harassment?

Sexual harassment is a psychosocial hazard that includes any unwelcome sexual advance, unwelcome request for sexual favours or other unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature in circumstances where a reasonable person, having regard to all the circumstances, would anticipate the possibility that the person harassed would be offended, humiliated or intimidated.

Behaviours that may indicate sexual harassment are not always obvious, repeated or continuous and may include:

  • unwelcome touching or physical contact, including hugging, cornering and kissing
  • suggestive comments or jokes, insults or taunts
  • unwanted invitations to go on dates or requests for sex in person and/or online
  • sending or displaying sexually offensive pictures or posters
  • sending sexually explicit emails, text messages or online interactions such as social media posts.

Sexual harassment can occur in any work location or accommodation, at work-related events, or by phone, email or online.

Managing the risk of workplace sexual harassment

Queensland's resources safety and health legislation requires obligation holders to manage the risk of workers suffering an injury or illness, including physical and psychological health harms from sexual harassment.

Sexual harassment is also against the law and is prohibited under the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cwlth). In December 2022, a positive duty was introduced that requires employers and persons conducting a business or undertaking to take proactive action to eliminate sexual harassment from the workplace.

Guidance material and information can be found in the Queensland Regulator Map (PDF, 313KB) for workplace sexual assault and sexual harassment.

View this additional guidance material:

Also consider…

  • Last reviewed: 20 Mar 2024
  • Last updated: 20 Mar 2024