It is claimed that the alleged harasser had started by looking the woman ‘up and down’ in a sexually suggestive manner, but that his actions soon intensified. This included sending messages to the woman in question, who claims he would become aggressive and abusive if she failed to reply. He allegedly wrote in one text: ‘Why are you f-----g ignoring me? I'm your boss. Show some respect.’

‘Categorically denied’

It is also claimed that the woman complained repeatedly to her alleged harasser, the practice manager and one of the firm's principal lawyers. However, a spokeswoman for the firm at the centre of the controversy said the woman's claims were ‘categorically denied’. It is understood that the firm maintains that the relationship was inappropriate but consensual.

‘No excuse’

The woman, who is seeking damages and compensation, is being represented by Maurice Blackburn principal Josh Bornstein. Mr Bornstein commented: ‘We still have enormous work to do in getting organisations to confront wrongdoing … and where the wrongdoing is by someone highly regarded or valuable to the organisation, it is no excuse for failing to hold people to account.’ Source: The Age