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Screen industry bodies launch code of conduct to combat harassment and bullying

Industry organisations representing the Australian screen sector industry have released a shared industry code to fight workplace discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment and bullying.

Developed by the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance, Live Performance Australia and Screen Producers Australia, the voluntary code to take effect on 3 September 2018.


The voluntary code of practice comes as the industry deals with the fallout from the #metoo movement which has seen a number of prominent Australian screen figures accused of sexual misconduct.

CEO of Screen Producers Australia, Matthew Deaner, said: “Everyone has the right to a safe workplace. The Screen Industry Code will provide producers with practical tools to create a safe and positive work environment for all workers in our industry. We are united and committed to this cause.”

Designed to ensure consistency across the entire Australian screen industry, the code lays out how employers can reduce the risk of being legally liable by taking all reasonable steps to prevent acts of discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment and bullying in their workplaces and responding appropriately to resolve incidents.

LPA Chief Executive, Evelyn Richardson added: “It’s important for our industry to have consistent standards and practices that provide safe and respectful workplaces for all our workers. While many of our members already have policies and procedures in place, we see a vital role for providing an industry code and tools that can be implemented by companies irrespective of company size, capability or resources. This code is a part of our commitment to driving meaningful and long term cultural change.”

The code, which is available for download on the organisations’ websites includes templates and an overview of how businesses can develop policies and procedures to deal with inappropriate conduct.

“These changes are necessary to ensure that everyone in the industry gets the message about making our workplaces safe and inclusive for all,” said MEAA chief executive Paul Murphy. “The processes in the new policy are crystal clear and will lead to better workplaces throughout Australia’s entertainment industry.”

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