Are You Being Discriminated Against at Work? What Should You Do First?

Workplace discrimination can have a serious impact on your career, mental health, and confidence. Whether its being overlooked for a promotion, receiving unequal pay, or facing offensive behaviour due to your gender, race, disability, or beliefs these actions can violate Australian workplace laws.

If you believe you're being discriminated against at work, you're not alone and legal options are available. This guide will walk you through what to do first, how to gather evidence, and when to speak with a workplace discrimination lawyer to protect your rights.

What Is Workplace Discrimination?

Workplace discrimination occurs when an employer or co-worker treats someone unfairly because of a personal characteristic protected by law. These characteristics may include:

• Age

• Gender

• Disability

• Race or ethnicity

• Religion or belief

• Sexual orientation

• Pregnancy or parental status

Discrimination can be direct (e.g. denying a promotion because you're pregnant) or indirect (e.g. company policies that disadvantage a certain group).

Examples of Workplace Discrimination

• Being passed over for promotions despite qualifications

• Receiving less pay than colleagues in similar roles

• Exclusion from meetings or company events

• Offensive jokes, slurs, or comments

• Dismissal or demotion based on personal characteristics

If youve experienced any of the above, it may be time to consult with employment discrimination lawyers who specialise in this area.

Step 1: Document Everything

Start by documenting every instance of discrimination. Keep a dated log of incidents, including:

• What happened

• Who was involved

• Where it occurred

• Witnesses (if any)

• Emails, messages, or comments made

Accurate records can strengthen your case when reporting the issue internally or when seeking legal help from employment lawyers in Perth WA.

Step 2: Review Your Contract & Workplace Policies

Before taking any action, review your employment contract and workplace policies. Most organisations have codes of conduct, anti-discrimination policies, or internal grievance procedures.

Understanding these can help you follow the correct steps before involving a workplace discrimination law firm or external body like the Fair Work Commission or Equal Opportunity Commission.

Step 3: Report Internally (If Safe to Do So)

If you feel safe, raise the matter with your manager, supervisor, or HR department. Many workplaces have formal complaint channels that must be exhausted before taking external legal action.

Be clear and professional in your communication. If internal reporting leads to no resolution or worse, retaliation its time to contact the best employment lawyers Perth has to offer.

Step 4: Speak to a Workplace Discrimination Lawyer

Workplace discrimination can be emotionally distressing and legally complex. Seeking help from a qualified workplace discrimination lawyer ensures you take the correct steps and understand your rights under Australian law.

Top employment lawyers in Perth can assist with:

• Reviewing your documentation

• Explaining your legal options

• Preparing formal complaints

• Representing you at tribunals or courts

• Negotiating settlements or reinstatements

Your Legal Rights in WA

Under the Fair Work Act 2009 and the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA), you have legal protection against discrimination. These laws make it unlawful for employers to treat employees unfairly based on protected attributes.

You are legally entitled to:

• A safe, respectful work environment

• Equal pay for equal work

• The right to raise complaints without retaliation

• Freedom from harassment or bullying

• Access to promotions and training fairly

A Perth employment lawyer can help you determine if your case meets the legal definition of discrimination and how to pursue it.

When Should You Seek Legal Advice?

You should speak with employment lawyers Perth if:

• You've tried internal procedures and nothing has changed

• You're experiencing ongoing emotional distress

• Youve been demoted, terminated, or unfairly treated

• You're being retaliated against for raising complaints

The earlier you get legal advice, the better. Many of the best workplace discrimination lawyers offer confidential initial consultations to assess your situation.

What Outcomes Can You Expect?

With the help of the best employment lawyers in Perth, successful claims can lead to:

• Compensation for lost income or emotional harm

• Reinstatement of your role or position

• Changes to internal workplace policies

• Public or written apologies

• Preventative measures implemented in the workplace

Not every case will result in court many are resolved through negotiation, mediation, or internal dispute resolution, particularly with skilled legal representation.

Why Work with Employment Discrimination Lawyers?

Handling a discrimination case alone can be overwhelming. Partnering with a workplace discrimination law firm ensures you get professional, objective support that focuses on outcomes.

Experienced employment lawyers in Perth WA understand both state and federal laws, employer tactics, and the emotional toll discrimination causes.

They provide:

• Objective advice and guidance

• Confidence during complaint processes

• Strong representation in legal hearings

• A strategy tailored to your situation

How to Choose the Right Lawyer

Look for lawyers with specific experience in workplace discrimination and employment law. A good lawyer will:

• Offer clear communication

• Be upfront about fees and timeframes

• Explain your rights and likely outcomes

• Be empathetic and supportive

• Have a strong track record of success

There are many Perth employment lawyers who specialise in representing employees facing workplace issues choosing the right one can make a significant difference.

Conclusion: Dont Tolerate Workplace Discrimination

If you're being discriminated against at work, its essential to act. You deserve a respectful, fair, and inclusive work environment and the law supports that. From documenting incidents and reviewing policies to consulting with the best workplace discrimination lawyers, taking action can not only protect your career but also bring justice and change to your workplace.

Dont wait until its too late. If you believe your rights are being violated, reach out to experienced employment lawyers Perth WA who can guide you every step of the way.