What are the legal consequences?

General information

Caution

These rules apply to all EU citizens in Austria.

If you suffer sexual harassment at the workplace, you are entitled to suitable compensation for damages amounting to no less than EUR 1 000.

You are eligible to claim damages from:

  • the person who discriminated against you
  • your employer if he/she negligently fails to take appropriate remedial action, i.e. if he/she fails to prevent harassment by third parties (e.g. by warning, transfer or termination)
  • the federal government, if the employer’s representative negligently fails to take appropriate remedial action.

Sexual harassment may also result in criminal penalties for the perpetrator.

Deadlines

The deadline for making a claim for damages before the court is 3 years.

Competent authority

Legal basis

Translated by the European Commission
Last update: 19 April 2024

Responsible for the content: Federal Ministry of Labour and Economy