Susan* worked as a nurse for a medical practice. She worked closely with the Director of the Practice, Dr Khem*. Over time, Dr Khem began behaving in ways that made her feel uncomfortable. Susan lodged a sexual harassment complaint with ADNSW against the Practice and Dr Khem. ADNSW investigated her complaint.
Susan said that while her relationship with Dr Khem was professional at first, he later started showing unwanted affection. This behaviour included unwelcome hugging and kissing, and increasingly frequent calling and texting, including love heart emojis, and professing his love for her.
Susan said she asked Dr Khem to stop because she was feeling uncomfortable and only wanted to have a professional working relationship with him. She said that despite her request, Dr Khem hugged her again and gave her an expensive gift that she did not want. Susan said that, after this, she was unable to return to work following and lodged a Workcover incident.
ADNSW facilitated shuttle conciliation proceedings between Susan and Dr Khem, which is a process where each party communicates separately through a conciliator.
The complaint was resolved by agreement between Susan, Dr Khem and the Practice. Susan agreed to accept a financial payment of general damages to settle her complaint. The agreement did not include any admission of wrongdoing by the Practice or Dr Khem.
* Names have been changed to protect the privacy of the individuals
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