Respect and Equity Policy

1. Our Commitment

Ascend Saunas is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all clients, team members, and community partners. We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying, or harassment of any kind. We promote fairness, equal opportunity, and respectful conduct across all our wellness services, sessions, and work environments.

We aim to lead by example in the wellness industry by prioritising human dignity, psychological safety, and equal access to health and wellbeing experiences.

2. Responsibilities

Clients and Team Members Have the Right To:

• Be treated fairly and without discrimination, regardless of background or personal characteristics

• Access wellness services in a space free from harassment, intimidation, or exclusion

• Raise concerns or complaints respectfully and without fear of retaliation

• Support others who experience inappropriate behaviour

• Uphold dignity, courtesy, and kindness in all interactions

Team Members Must:

• Comply with behavioural standards outlined in this policy

• Encourage and support respectful conduct

• Maintain confidentiality when handling complaints or concerns

• Treat colleagues, clients, and members of the public with courtesy and respect at all times

Management Will:

• Model inclusive, respectful behaviour

• Educate team members about this policy and relevant laws

• Respond promptly and fairly to inappropriate conduct

• Ensure complaint procedures are clear and accessible

• Prevent victimisation of anyone who raises a concern

• Promote equal opportunity in hiring, training, scheduling, and promotion

3. Scope of Application

This policy applies to:

• All Ascend Saunas team members, including casual and permanent staff, contractors, and volunteers

• All clients and guests who access our services

• All Ascend Saunas services and experiences, whether onsite, mobile, digital, or at offsite events

• All forms of communication and interaction, including face-to-face, digital, and social settings

4. Unacceptable Conduct

Discrimination, bullying, and harassment—including sexual harassment—are prohibited under Australian law and have no place at Ascend Saunas.

Relevant legislation includes:

• Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth)

• Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth)

• Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth)

• Age Discrimination Act 2004 (Cth)

• Australian Human Rights Commission Act 1986 (Cth)

Breaches of this policy may result in disciplinary action, suspension from services, or termination of employment.

5. Discrimination

Discrimination occurs when someone is treated unfairly because of a personal characteristic protected by law. This includes:

• Disability, illness, or injury

• Age

• Race, ethnicity, or national origin

• Sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation

• Pregnancy, marital or parental status

• Religion or political belief

• Association with someone with a protected characteristic

Discrimination may be direct or indirect and can affect access to services, employment, or participation.

6. Bullying

Bullying includes repeated, unreasonable behaviour that creates a risk to health or safety. Examples include:

• Sarcasm or degrading comments

• Threats, shouting, or intimidation

• Isolation or exclusion

• Blaming or unfair treatment

• Deliberately withholding necessary information

• Unjustified refusal of service, leave, or support

7. Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment is any unwanted behaviour of a sexual nature that causes offence, intimidation, or humiliation. Examples include:

• Unwelcome comments about appearance or body

• Sexual jokes, innuendo, or suggestive gestures

• Uninvited physical contact

• Repeated invitations despite refusal

• Display of offensive images

• Sexually explicit messages or social media posts

8. Victimisation

Victimisation occurs when someone is treated unfairly because they have made a complaint or participated in a complaint process. It is strictly prohibited.

9. Gossip and Confidentiality

Sharing personal information or discussing an investigation outside of formal procedures is a breach of confidentiality and can further harm those involved. All parties are expected to respect the privacy of any concerns raised.

10. Reporting and Resolution Procedures

Filing a Complaint: Clients or team members can report concerns verbally or in writing to any senior team member or manager. All concerns will be taken seriously.

Initial Assessment: An informal resolution will be attempted if appropriate. If the concern requires further action, a formal investigation will commence.

Investigation Process:

• Conducted by a trained internal or external investigator

• May include interviews and evidence gathering

• All parties will be treated respectfully and fairly

Post-Investigation Actions:

• Both parties will be informed of the outcome

• Disciplinary or supportive measures may be introduced

• Preventive steps may include training or policy review

Non-Retaliation Guarantee: Anyone raising a concern in good faith is protected from retaliation. Any retaliatory behaviour will itself be treated as a serious breach of this policy.

Contact Us

If you have questions or concerns about this Respect and Equity Policy or wish to raise an issue, please contact us at: hello@ascendsaunas.com.au