Bullying, harassment in Vic police

SEXUAL HARASSMENT IN VICTORIA'S POLICE FORCE

* Some female officers have been drugged and raped by colleagues

* Homophobia and sexuality-based hostility widespread

* Female officers commonly regarded less competent

* Women experience high levels of discrimination

* Sexually suggestive comments, jokes common form of harassment

* Victim-blaming common for females who experience harassment

* Women stationed in regional areas often experience discrimination and bullying

* Chronic under-reporting of gender-based discrimination and harassment

* One in five female officers harassed in the last five years

* Higher-ranked officers most commonly reported perpetrators

* Anger about tolerance of sexual harassment

RECOMMENDATIONS

* Structures aimed at preventing and responding to sexual harassment

* Improve awareness about gender equality

* External service to provide confidential support for victims

* Discipline perpetrators

Source: Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission