I was sexually harassed at work and I was so distressed I had to quit. I want to sue my former boss but I have heard that before I can go to court I have to go to conciliation. I don’t want to sit in a room with him and have to talk to him! What can I do?
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Answer by Kate Dodgson of [author’s firm]:
- It is correct that before you can go to a tribunal or court you must make a complaint at your state or territory’s discrimination commission and attend conciliation.
- However you do not need to worry. Conciliation is a very flexible process.
- If you don’t want to be in a room with your ex-boss the conciliator can provide a ‘shuttle service’ where you sit in separate rooms and the conciliator goes between the rooms carrying your messages.
- Alternatively you can ask to participate in the conciliation over the phone or by letters or emails.