Barriers to reporting sexual harassment in Australian nightlife settings

Nightlife settings are hotspots for sexual harassment, yet little is known about patrons' reporting or disclosure behaviours. The current study examines factors influencing reporting decisions and reasons for not reporting among 320 Australian participants aged 18–62 (Mdn = 24, 69% women) who had experienced nightlife-related sexual harassment in the past year, using an online survey. Only 35.4% of those experiencing physical sexual harassment and 37.9% of those subjected to pressured sexual contact reported or disclosed the incident to someone at the venue (e.g. venue staff) or someone after leaving the venue (e.g. police). Women were less likely than men to report/disclose their experience of physical sexual harassment (OR = .34, p = .045) and pressured sexual contact (OR = .22, p = .001). Common reasons for not reporting included being unsure whether venue staff would respond appropriately, believing these experiences are normal within nightlife venues, and anticipating insensitivity or blame from other. Despite the negative impact that sexual harassment can have on nightlife patrons, rates of reporting and disclosure are concerningly low. Comprehensive training for venue staff around identifying and responding to sexual harassment is essential to improve reporting rates and promote safer nightlife settings.