In the wake of recent allegations of sexual harassment across both local and international screen sectors, Women in Film and Television (WIFT) NSW has joined forces with a range of industry bodies to deliver a free forum designed to address the issue and bring about change.
The ‘Safer Workplace Forum’, to be held December 12, will be organised in partnership with Screen Australia, Create NSW, the Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS), the Screen Diversity and Inclusion Network (SDIN), Foxtel, Screen Producers Australia (SPA), the Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance (MEAA) and Rape and Domestic Violence Services Australia.
The forum will be live-streamed, and cover sexual harassment and assault, as well as bullying and intimidation within the screen industry. It will also address individual safety and workplace rights alongside personal and organisation responsibilities.
Almost 60 per cent of respondents to a recent survey conducted by WIFT NSW reported having experienced sexual harassment in the workplace.
More than half of those chose to further detail their experiences, with 29.5 per stating they had been sexually assaulted, and an additional 34.5 per cent reporting inappropriate touching.
Seventy-two (72) per cent respondents also reported that they had experienced harassment and/or discrimination in the workplace that had a negative impact on their career.
WIFT NSW president Megan Riakos said: “It is critical to have sector wide involvement to address these issues. The collegiate support to deliver this event is key to working towards a common goal of a safer, equitable workplace for all.”
Screen Australia chief operating officer Fiona Cameron said: “We are committed to seeing an industry wide shift of culture and are dedicated to working with peak industry bodies to facilitate lasting change.”
The forum will take place 8.45am to 1.30pm on Dec 12 at AFTRS, Moore Park, Sydney.