We know most instances of sexual harassment in the law go unreported – and we want this to change.
Our independent Legal Services Research Centre’s new report on the Lawyer Census 2025 reveals one in three participating lawyers has experienced sexual harassment while in a workplace context, and nearly half have witnessed it. And the vast majority who have experienced this conduct didn’t report it, either formally or informally.
That’s why we’re increasing the pathways you can take to reach us if you have experienced or witnessed sexual harassment in the law.
Our new dedicated phone line
You can now call our specialised Sexual Harassment Complaints Team on their new, dedicated phone line (03 9679 8090) to make a complaint or anonymous report, or email the team directly at harassmentcomplaints@lsbc.vic.gov.au.
They’re there to listen and talk with you about your options, and support you in telling your story in a way that works for you.
You also have the choice of using our anonymous online reporting tool, where you decide how much information you share with us, and what you want us to do next.
We have zero tolerance for sexual harassment in the legal profession. This includes conduct that may happen outside the practise of law or legal workplaces, such as at end of year work events or after work drinks, via social media, or via calls or texts messages that are unrelated to work.
We take all complaints about sexual harassment very seriously – the outcomes of which can include disciplinary action at VCAT or assessing a lawyer’s fitness to practice.
Learn more about your options for reporting sexual harassment to us, and access:
- our guide on what can do if you are experiencing sexual harassment – including at the time of an incident and immediately afterwards
- our guide coverings actions bystanders can take to respond to sexual harassment that they witness or hear about, and the wide spectrum of behaviours that can constitute sexual harassment
- Sexual Harassment in the Legal Profession: Findings from the 2025 Victorian Lawyer Census.
Message from Victorian Legal Services Board CEO and Commissioner Fiona McLeay
“If you have witnessed or experienced sexual harassment by a lawyer, we encourage you to report this to us, on your terms.”
“I am pleased that the majority of lawyers understand the VLSB+C has a role in the prevention of sexual harassment within the profession, and that we have a role in the investigation of the perpetrator.”
“We do not tolerate sexual harassment of any kind in the law, and will take action against perpetrators.”
“We are committed to working with the profession to drive the changes that are needed to address sexual harassment in the law, and ensure employees and consumers of legal services are protected.”
