Problems at work: Am I protected from discrimination at work?

Yes. The Fair Work Act protects you from discrimination and other negative actions (e.g. dismissal) because of your:

  • age
  • sexual preference
  • family or carer responsibilities
  • race
  • marital status
  • national or social origin
  • colour
  • pregnancy
  • physical or mental disability
  • sex
  • religion
  • political opinion.

What you can do

If you think you are being discriminated against you can also contact the Fair Work Ombudsman on 13 13 94 or chat online with a Live help adviser for advice. The Fair  Work Ombudsman can give you advice and may be able to investigate any discrimination taking place.

For more information on disability discrimination and lodging a complaint, go to the Australian Human Rights Commission website.

What should I do if I’m being discriminated against at work?

  • Sometimes stereotypes and assumptions about young workers can mean you are treated unfairly, or denied employment, training or career development opportunities.
  • You don’t have to put up with being treated unfairly at work because you are young!
  • There are specific anti-discrimination laws to protect you against unfair treatment, discrimination, harassment and bullying.

What you can do

When you can’t resolve discrimination or harassment complaints through internal workplace processes, you can contact the Fair Work Ombudsman on 13 13 94 or chat online with a Live help adviser for advice. 

If you think you are being discriminated against you can also contact the Australian Human Rights Commission on 1300 656 419 (local call) or 02 9284 9888 or SMS: 0488 744 487 (0488 RIGHTS).

To find out more, read the complaints information on the Australia Human Rights Commission website.

Other contacts

ACT— Human Rights Commission Phone: 02 6205 2222
TTY: 02 6205 1666

NSW—Anti-Discrimination Board Phone: 02 9268 5555 or 1800 670 812 (rural and regional NSW only);
TTY: 02 9268 5522

NT—Anti-Discrimination Commission Phone: 08 8999 1444 or 1800 813 846 (Free call)
TTY: 08 8999 1466

QLD—Anti-Discrimination Commission Phone: 1300 130 670
TTY: 1300 130 680

SA—Equal Opportunity Commission Phone: 08 8207 1977 or 1800 188 163 (country callers);
TTY: 08 8207 1911

TAS.—Office of the Anti-Discrimination Commissioner Phone: 1300 305 062
TTY: 03 6233 3122

VIC.—Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission Phone: 1300 292 153
TTY: 1300 289 621

WA—Equal Opportunity Commission Phone: 08 9216 3900 or 1800 198 149 (free call for country callers);
TTY: 08 9216 3936

Problems at work