As stories of workplace misconduct continue to grab headlines, from media organisations to tech giants and government staff, a new initiative is stepping up to address a pressing issue that’s often swept under the rug. Prabha Nandagopal, a well-known human rights and discrimination lawyer, has launched SafeSpace@elevate—Australia’s first trauma-informed platform for reporting and supporting victims of workplace harassment and discrimination.
The platform, which is independent and web-based, aims to tackle the underreporting of harmful behaviour such as sexual harassment, bullying, racism, and other forms of discrimination in workplaces across Australia. SafeSpace@elevate is designed to help individuals report these incidents while maintaining confidentiality and providing trauma-informed care, ultimately giving people the support they need without fear of backlash.
Prabha, who has spent over 18 years addressing systemic issues within Australian workplaces, says SafeSpace is a crucial step forward in improving how harmful behaviours are reported and handled. “I’ve had countless conversations with business leaders, policymakers, and everyday Australians about the challenges of addressing harmful workplace behaviour. SafeSpace@elevate was created to bridge the gaps in current reporting systems and offer real support for those who face these issues,” she explains.
Prabha’s experience includes holding senior roles at the Australian Human Rights Commission, where she led various groundbreaking initiatives, including the Respect@Work National Inquiry and an independent review of Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces. Her work has also seen her contribute to the National Music Industry Review and EY Oceania’s cultural assessment.
The statistics are stark: According to the Australian Human Rights Commission, workplace sexual harassment costs businesses $2.6 billion in lost productivity each year, with one in three people experiencing harassment. Yet, only 18% make a formal complaint. This wide gap between incidents and reporting is one of the many challenges that SafeSpace@elevate seeks to address.
Prabha explains that people often hesitate to report harmful behaviour because they don’t trust internal reporting processes or fear repercussions. SafeSpace@elevate counters this by offering a confidential, trauma-informed option for those looking to share their experiences. “People want to report harmful behaviour, but they often feel they can’t because of concerns about confidentiality or fear of retaliation,” she says. “SafeSpace@elevate provides a platform that prioritises psychological safety and cultural sensitivity, so people can speak up without fear.”
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SafeSpace@elevate isn’t just about reporting incidents; it’s also about creating a path forward. Once reports are made, Prabha’s consultancy, Elevate Consulting Partners, works with businesses to conduct independent investigations, provide training, and foster a positive workplace culture. “Reporting is the first step, but it’s what happens after that matters most. We help businesses take real action based on the reports they receive, driving change from within,” she adds.
Prabha’s long list of achievements and accolades highlights her commitment to pushing for meaningful change in the workplace. From leading inquiries on children in detention to pioneering the positive duty compliance framework for workplace discrimination, she has consistently been at the forefront of challenging the status quo and finding solutions to deeply entrenched issues.
Her latest venture, SafeSpace@elevate, builds on this experience, offering a much-needed tool for employees and businesses alike. The platform is more than just a response to the current headlines; it’s a proactive solution designed to create safer, more inclusive work environments across Australia.
By empowering individuals to report issues early, SafeSpace@elevate ensures that harmful behaviour is addressed before it escalates, allowing businesses to act swiftly and appropriately. For employees, it offers the reassurance of a safe, independent space to voice their concerns. For businesses, it provides a means to improve culture and foster environments where everyone can thrive.
As the national conversation about workplace behaviour continues, Prabha’s SafeSpace@elevate is a timely and necessary innovation, offering a new way to tackle old problems. With her expertise and commitment to change, SafeSpace@elevate is set to become a game-changer for Australian workplaces, providing much-needed support for those who need it most.
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🌟 SafeSpace@elevate, launched by human rights lawyer Prabha Nandagopal, provides a trauma-informed platform for confidentially reporting #workplace harassment & discrimination. 💼 Discover how it’s making #workplaces safer. 🌈🗣️ #TheIndianSunhttps://t.co/02ywK52SXQ
— The Indian Sun (@The_Indian_Sun) October 27, 2024
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