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Film Victoria sets tone for industry with updated Code of Conduct

Media Releases  11 Apr 2018

Film Victoria has updated the Victorian Screen Industry Code of Conduct and funding terms and conditions in an active commitment to eliminate harassment and other unsafe workplace behaviours in the Victorian screen industry.

The updated Code reflects Film Victoria’s zero tolerance approach to unsafe workplace practices and behaviours including discrimination, harassment and bullying.

Initially released in 2012 the Code offers heightened clarity about workplace standards that reflect the current needs of the Victorian screen industry and the issues and policies that impact its practitioners.

Changes have also been made to Film Victoria’s Terms of Trade, contracts and associated agreements. From 2 April:

  • Film Victoria’s Terms of Trade has a new section on Safe Workplaces with an expectation that employers comply with all legislation (state and federal) relating to providing a safe workplace.
  • Contracts for Film Victoria’s Assigned Production Investment programs will include a requirement that funded projects comply with all applicable laws, legislation regulations and the Victorian Screen Industry Code of Conduct.
  • Funding acquittal forms will require evidence of compliance with the Victorian Screen Industry Code of Conduct as it relates to sexual harassment legislation.
  • An addition to the Assigned Production Investment program guidelines that refer to the safe workplace requirements in the Terms of Trade.
  • Communication about safe workplace behaviour will be included on all invitations to Film Victoria events and on other relevant channels.

All employers and businesses working with Film Victoria will be supported to understand and apply the Code.

Film Victoria CEO Caroline Pitcher said “It is our strong intent to see every practitioner, actor, crew member and associated service business understand their role and obligations in complying with Victorian and Australian legislation which contributes to a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace, and that these obligations are adhered to in all circumstances.

“Every individual is responsible for playing their part in helping to provide and work in a safe and supportive environment, however employers must lead the way by providing training, resources, regular communication and respectful and responsive processes for handling any form of complaint.

“Our industry often sets a leading example for societal change which makes Film Victoria’s zero tolerance for discrimination and harassment all the more important. I call on everyone in the industry to support and ensure the Code’s effective execution across the full spectrum of sectors and individuals we support and represent.” 

Victorian and national government agencies, screen industry bodies and practitioners have assisted in the development and refinement of this document.