A review reportedly reveals an environment of sexual harassment and discrimination within the Australian Border Force's (ABF) marine unit.

The report by the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC), allegedly witnessed by The Guardian and ABC, details “a culture rife with sexism, sexual harassment, and bullying”.

The workplace is deemed unsafe for female officers, the reports say. 

According to the commission, every surveyed woman in the marine unit experienced some form of sexual harassment or discrimination, with 78 per cent reporting direct experiences of such behaviour.

A survey conducted from September to October 2023 allegedly showed an overwhelming exposure to sex discrimination, with female officers detailing incidents involving sexist remarks, inappropriate comments about physical appearance, and serious sexual harassment. 

The male-dominated environment, comprising only 10 per cent female officers compared to 44 per cent across the entire ABF, contributes to a workplace culture that isolates and discriminates against women.

ABF Commissioner Michael Outram has told news outlets that the details reported were “confronting and disturbing” and not reflective of the organisation's values. 

Outram said the agency is committed to addressing the issues, and would implement all 42 recommendations from the AHRC report including periodic risk assessments and enhanced diversity training.

The report allegedly calls for “immediate intervention” to amend the pervasive inappropriate behaviour, stating that such conduct not only compromises the safety of officers but also poses institutional risks to the ABF. 

The recommendations call for leadership at all levels to be held accountable for both reported and known incidents, suggesting a shift towards a culture of transparency and responsibility.

Anna Cody, the sex discrimination commissioner, described the findings as indicative of a deep-seated problem within the unit, necessitating significant cultural shifts to create a safe and respectful working environment.

These revelations come as part of a broader five-year collaboration with the AHRC aimed at enhancing workplace culture and gender equity within the ABF. 

Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil has expressed concern over the findings and supported the implementation of the recommended changes.

The report leaves some questioning the effectiveness of current measures to combat workplace discrimination and harassment within government bodies, with calls for stringent monitoring and enforcement of respectful workplace policies.