QWWS plays an important role in keeping women employed. QWWS clients often hold casual positions in the workforce which may not be accompanied by entitlements or union representation. The loss of employment can have dramatic impacts on women, families and the community.
QWWS does not have State Government funding to support women through the process of making a claim at the Queensland Anti Discrimination Commission to redress discrimination or harassment. Typically these women constitute about 12% of their clients each year, and while many can access General Protections Legislation in the Commonwealth jurisdiction, the process available at the ADCQ is more directly effective in redressing matters of discrimination and sexual harassment.
The grant will assist in providing resources for a QWWS Industrial Officer to support these women after their initial contact with the service through:
- A detailed interview to understand what has happened and what redress may be available
- An assessment of the merits of the case and likelihood of success if a claim is made
- Assist the woman to develop and submit the application to the ADCQ
- Support during the lead up time to the Conciliation Conference (can be several months)
- Representation at the Conciliation Conference
- Assistance with negotiation and finalisation of any settlement agreed
- Debrief after conference
Visit www.qwws.org.au to learn more
