“This in itself can be regarded as a facilitator or even a manifestation of institutional racism, as it systematically excludes people from speaking out against racism and, in doing so, allows the ongoing denial of racism,” it said.
Associate Professor Mario Peucker, research lead, called for systems that listen, respond, and support victims.
“Speaking out against racism should not be an act of bravery. These voices must lead the way forward in addressing racism, without putting the burden of fixing the problem on those who still have to face it,” Peucker said in a statement.
The Victorian government released a strategy in 2024 that aims to stop racism over the next five years, including in workplaces.
“We will use these actions to challenge racist behaviours and attitudes,” the strategy read. “We will remove barriers caused by racism. We will also do better to support people affected by racism.”