Creating Safer, Stronger Workplaces: Hospitality Industry Steps Up Against Harassment 

A new wave of change is rippling through the hospitality industry in New South Wales as more venues take proactive steps to build safer, more respectful workplaces. With guidance from SafeWork NSW and the Respect at Work Taskforce, businesses are embracing a future where safety, dignity, and well-being go hand in hand with customer service. 

The hospitality sector has long been known for its energy, diversity and dynamism—but it’s also a space where certain work conditions, such as late-night shifts, close customer interaction, and fast-paced environments, have made staff more vulnerable to sexual harassment. That’s now changing. 

Across the state, venues— from bustling city pubs to regional cafés—are receiving direct support from SafeWork NSW inspectors, who are offering practical advice and resources to help businesses identify, prevent, and manage risks related to workplace harassment. 

Rather than focusing solely on compliance, the program emphasises empowerment through education. Businesses are encouraged to create open lines of communication, involve staff in decision-making, and build cultures where everyone, especially young, casually employed, and culturally diverse team members, can thrive confidently. 

“Positive change starts with awareness and honest conversations,” says Christina, Director of the Respect at Work program. “We’re seeing businesses take real ownership of their responsibilities and actively go beyond minimum requirements to foster respectful workplaces.” 

Recent figures from the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) show that while many organisations already have formal harassment policies, there is still room for improvement in monitoring and implementation. That’s where SafeWork NSW is stepping in—bridging the gap between policy and practice and helping businesses bring those values to life on the ground. 

Various free tools and resources, including a NSW Code of Practice for sexual and gender-based harassment and a dedicated guide for hospitality venues, back the initiative. These support materials are designed to help employers and teams meet WHS obligations and create environments where staff feel respected, safe, and supported. 

This shift is also mirrored in how new entrants are being trained for the industry. Registered Training Organisations, such as those offering hospitality qualifications, increasingly emphasise soft skills, professional boundaries, and WHS awareness—equipping students with the knowledge to advocate for themselves and others in the workplace. 

“Today’s hospitality workers are not only skilled in service—they’re more confident, aware and ready to work in venues prioritising their wellbeing,” says Trent Curtin, Head of SafeWork NSW. “We’re seeing a cultural shift, and it’s inspiring to witness.” 

SafeWork NSW invites workers to report any unsafe or inappropriate practices—either through their employer, or anonymously via the Speak Up Save Lives app, the online Psychosocial Hazards Report Form, or by calling 13 10 50. 

With momentum building and more businesses stepping up, the hospitality industry is proving that safer workplaces are not only possible but are becoming the new standard. The result is a stronger, more inclusive sector where workers and customers can enjoy the experience with peace of mind.