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Christmas is coming… Preparing for Christmas functions

Nov 30, 2022


  • 2min

Christmas is coming… Preparing for Christmas functions

Employer Brand, Industry News
Christmas parties and functions are a hot topic being discussed in many offices and businesses around the country at the moment. It will not be long till we start attending the work Christmas functions.

For the most part, these occasions are fun. They are a celebration of the year that has been and a chance to connect with colleagues out of the office – however, some alcohol-fuelled events have led to workplace injuries or inappropriate behaviour, ranging from sexual harassment, discrimination, bullying or, worst case, physical assaults.

Caitlin, Tom, Cheyenne & Felicity enjoying an afternoon at our local Blacksmiths Provedore in Albury.
As an employer, you are legally responsible for the conduct of employees at these functions. Fear not – we are here to help you prepare and plan so that you can start formulating ways to reduce the risk of issues arising. .
  • Make sure you have employee policies outlining the expected behaviour at work and work-related functions, including Christmas parties and gatherings. Policies can include the Code of Conduct, discrimination, sexual harassment, bullying and alcohol and drug use
  • As you begin communicating the event to employees, remind them that the Christmas function is a work-related event and employees must comply with workplace policies 
  • Clearly outline start and finish times for the official Christmas function 
  • Communicate to and warn employees of the consequences of unacceptable behaviour and reinforce the code of conduct
  • Make sure the venue or people responsible for the function 
    • serve alcohol responsibly and limit the amount of alcohol available to employees
    • ensure that there is adequate food and non-alcoholic beverages available 
    • only serve alcohol to people of the legal drinking age 
    • ensure that alcohol service finishes at the end time stipulated
  • Organise safe transport options for employees to get home so that employees don’t drive if they are planning on drinking
  • As an employer –do not organise or pay for drinks at alternative venues after the function has finished 
  • If possible, ensure that everyone leaves the premises at the end of the function 
  • If there is a complaint about the behaviour at the Christmas function, ensure the employees know whom to report it to and that the complaint is dealt with promptly and appropriately investigated in line with company policies. 
  • It is best practice to appoint a senior member of the team to keep an eye on the function and take appropriate action if any issues arise.

The holiday season is one of the busiest of the year for many industries. If you need help or advice around your HR functions during this overwhelming time, please give one of our experts a call on 1800 868 254.

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