Human Rights Commission Reports Workplace Discrimination

A new national report highlights persistent discrimination against pregnant workers across Australian workplaces.

Updated on Oct. 19, 2026 in Pregnancy

Human Rights Commission Reports Workplace Discrimination

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Do you believe current workplace regulations provide sufficient protection against pregnancy discrimination?

The Australian Human Rights Commission has released a report detailing widespread workplace discrimination against pregnant employees. The study identifies recurring patterns such as job loss, sham redundancies, and the denial of flexible working arrangements.

Why it matters

The findings underscore significant barriers for working mothers, as the commission warns that a vast majority of those affected never file formal complaints. This data highlights the necessity for systemic policy changes to ensure workplace equality across the nation.

The commission noted that 91 percent of mothers facing discrimination do not lodge formal complaints. Research indicates that 49 percent of mothers experienced discrimination in 2014, with the commission consulting 84 stakeholders for the current report.

The players

Australian Human Rights Commission

This is an independent national body established by the Australian federal government to protect and promote human rights throughout the country.

The details

The report outlines how discrimination intersects with the experiences of First Nations, migrant, disabled, and LGBTQI+ communities. It provides 18 recommendations to reform current employment practices and better protect workers from pregnancy-related bias.

A 2014 study originally identified high rates of maternal workplace discrimination.
The commission received 54 complaints regarding pregnancy discrimination in 2021.
The commission received 72 complaints regarding pregnancy discrimination in 2025.
The Australian Human Rights Commission released the report on 20 October 2026.

Culture Shift

This report highlights a critical gap in the practical application of the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 within modern Australian workplaces. It reflects a societal shift toward better identifying and rectifying systemic bias that prevents equal participation for pregnant workers.

Working Australians should be aware that their rights cover protection against sham redundancies and the refusal of reasonable flexible work arrangements. Those experiencing workplace bias can now reference the new commission recommendations when discussing support requirements with their employers.

The takeaway

Workers are encouraged to document all instances of workplace bias to better support potential future claims. Understanding these legal protections is essential for maintaining job security during and after pregnancy.