• involve a high level of contact with third parties, including customers, clients or patients (for example, the retail and hospitality sectors, and the health care and social assistance industry) • are organised according to a hierarchical structure (for example, in police organisations, the Australian Defence Force, and the medical and legal professions). While there is limited data available on workplaces located in rural, regional and remote areas, particular factors such as geographic isolation, lower population density and cultural and social dimensions can increase the risk of sexual harassment in these settings and create barriers to reporting or challenging these behaviours. Small businesses face particular challenges in addressing workplace sexual harassment. The small size of the workplace and high degree of informal and personal interactions can increase the risk of sexual harassment and create barriers to reporting. Small businesses often lack the resources and skills to handle complaints. However, the size and make-up of small businesses also mean that business owners and managers are uniquely positioned to set and influence workplace culture and behaviour in a positive way. The Commission recognises that further research is required to assist in identifying risk factors for different workplace settings, as well as developing tailored solutions. Impacts of sexual harassment in the workplace The Inquiry found that as well as having a devastating and profound impact on individuals, workplace sexual harassment also undermines workplace productivity and imposes a significant economic cost to Australian society. Consultations and submissions described the complex and interconnected ways in which experiencing and reporting workplace sexual harassment can affect individuals, including through: • negative impacts on health and wellbeing • negative impacts on employment (both day-to-day and in relation to career progression) • significant financial consequences. The impact of workplace sexual harassment is not only limited to individual victims but extends to their families, friends, bystanders and other co‑workers. Sexual harassment also represents a cost to Australian employers through: • lost productivity • staff turnover Respect@Work: National Inquiry into Sexual Harassment in Australian Workplaces • 2020 • 21