Tackling ageism in the workplace
HREOC has launched a range of resources to help employers attract and retain older workers.
The Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission (HREOC) has launched a new website with information and resources to help employers attract and retain mature workers.
The site is part of the broader ‘Mature workers mean business’ campaign which will also see a number of print advertisements targeting age discrimination in the workplace.
The Federal Commissioner for Age Discrimination, Elizabeth Broderick said ageism is still a problem for older workers today.
In a recent listening tour across the country, a number of older participants told the commissioner that age discrimination was a barrier to full participation in the workplace.
“Some people told me that ageist assumptions and attitudes heavily impacted on their ability to find meaningful work, including misconceptions about being able adapt to change or wanting work at senior levels,” said Ms Broderick.
In 2006/07, HREOC received 106 complaints under the Age Discrimination Act – two thirds of which were made by people over the age of 45.
“As we live and work for longer, it is crucial that older Australians of all ages are able to fully participate in society,” said Ms Broderick.
“There is also a strong business imperative for employers to attract and retain mature age workers.”
HREOC has also developed a range of products to assist employers in understanding their obligations under the Age Discrimination Act. Click here to find out more.
