The inquiry is a "huge step" in making sure that workers won't tolerate such harassment in the workplace, says Kate Jenkins, Sex Discrimination Commissioner.
"We need to continue working to create a society where this kind of conduct is unthinkable, and where sexual harassment at work is not something people simply have to put up with," Jenkins says. "I believe this national inquiry is a huge step in the right direction."
More than 20% of those over the age of 15 in the country have been sexually harassed and 68% of instances have happened in the workplace. The inquiry will look into existing laws pertaining to sexual harassment and complaints filed with state and territory agencies focused on anti-discrimination.
The inquiry also will delve into the economic cost of sexual harassment for both individuals and businesses. It will last for one year, with the federal government providing A$500,000 toward the total A$900,000 cost.
Separately, the Australian Human Rights Commission is finishing up its fourth national survey on workplace sexual harassment, which so far indicates there has been a major uptick in sexual harassment rates since 2012 when the last survey was done, Jenkins notes. The survey will be completed in August.