Statement from the Night-Time Industries Association
Dear Members, Stakeholders, and Partners,
Like all of you, the NTIA Board and staff are deeply upset by the reports in the Sydney Morning Herald.
Abuse, assault, harassment and mistreatment are abhorrent acts that simply should not exist anywhere, least of all in workplaces. As an industry, we must do far more to protect our workers.
The bravery of the women who shared their stories is remarkable. Their selflessness to speak out to protect others shows incredible strength. On behalf of the NTIA, thank you for your courage. Thanks to you, this sector has an opportunity to improve.
However, for the sector to improve, we must professionalise. The systems and processes in place to protect staff must be fit for purpose. Staff must have confidence that they are protected and that their wellbeing is a priority, not an afterthought. This must be the fundamental priority for any business.
Secondly, the culture must be reset. Culture reflects what is accepted and the norms we tell ourselves are right. For this to change it requires leadership and a ‘new normal’ for what a career in hospitality entails. An industry or workplace culture of misogyny and boys clubs has no place in a professional industry – especially one that exists to welcome and accommodate people from all walks of life.
As an industry association, our purpose is to shape the night time economy that we want. One that is diverse, growing, safe and accessible and reflects who we are. As the industry undergoes this necessary maturation and professionalisation, we will stand to support our members.
The NTIA has been engaging with SafeWork NSW to understand the resources available to support businesses of all shapes and sizes to improve their processes. These resources have been recapped below.
I encourage members to contact the NTIA to discuss their needs or concerns.
If the reports or content of this message have evoked any challenges for you, you can contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or Lifeline (13 11 14).
