Concerns over state’s pause on workplace anti-discrimination, sexual harassment laws

New laws to prevent anti-discrimination and sexual harassment in workplaces have been paused by the state government over fears they could make it easier for criminals to get weapons. But the move has been slammed as ‘disproportionate’.

Attorney-General Deb Frecklington during Question Time. Picture: Steve Pohlner

New laws to prevent anti-discrimination and sexual harassment in workplaces have been paused by the state government over fears Labor’s “flawed” proposal could make it easier for criminals to get weapons.

Attorney-General Deb Frecklington claimed the laws could unintentionally undermine decisions relating to weapons licensing, police protection notices or security provider licensing – because they banned organisations from considering an “irrelevant criminal record”.

However, the former government’s overhaul of the anti-discrimination laws, passed in September, also put the onus on an employer to take steps to eliminate and prevent discrimination and sexual harassment.

The changes were due to come into effect on July 1.

But Ms Frecklington on Friday said the government would pause the implementation for more consultation following advice that new protected attributes for discrimination, including “irrelevant criminal record”, could impact some statutory decision-making schemes.

“It shouldn’t have been rushed through,” she said of Labor’s change.

Queensland Human Rights Commissioner Scott McDougall said no concerns had previously been made about the laws. Picture: Liam Kidston

“Implementing a pause will allow sufficient time for the Department of Justice to undertake policy work while we consult with stakeholders.”

The government said of particular concern was weapons licensing, police protection notices or security provider licensing in regards to criminal records.

Queensland Human Rights Commissioner Scott McDougall said he was “bewildered” by the Attorney-General’s decision.

“To pause the implementation of all these changes due to a concern about one aspect of the reforms, with no notice and no concerns previously having been raised with us, is a disproportionate response,” he said.

“I am very disappointed, not only at this decision by the state government but by the manner of its announcement and the lack of engagement with my Commission and the many other stakeholders who have been preparing for the changes.”

Queensland shadow attorney-general Meaghan Scanlon. Picture: Glenn Campbell

National data reveals women were more likely to face sexual harassment in the workplace, with 89 per cent of female workers experiencing sex-based harassment.

Shadow Attorney-General Meaghan Scanlon said the LNP were “standing in the way” of protections for women, domestic violence victims and other marginalised groups.

“Given the staggering number of women who have been sexually harassed in the workplace, god only knows why the LNP want to let discrimination and harassment run unabated,” she said.

“Indefinitely delaying strong protections is akin to condoning this behaviour in Queensland workplaces.”

Queensland Unions general secretary Jacqueline King said it was a “slap in the face” and urged the LNP to reconsider the decision.

However, the Australian Christian Lobby said the government was protecting Christian churches, aged care facilities, schools and people from discrimination.

Originally published as Concerns over state’s pause on workplace anti-discrimination, sexual harassment laws