Jenna*, not her real name, is a barrister who has practised for more than a decade and experienced many types of sexual harassment.

These included repeatedly being grabbed on her bottom at legal functions, being propositioned for sex multiple times during case conferences in chambers, and being exposed to highly sexualised conversations with fellow barristers.

One male barrister she worked alongside constantly commented on who he’d like to have sex with, including graphic detail about sexual positions and the attractiveness of solicitors in court, Jenna said.

But she felt unable to do much more than laugh it off and avoid him, she said.

“It’s a profession where there are levels of seniority and if you ruffle feathers it might have dire consequences for your career,” she said.