Sex Discrimination Act 1975 and 1986

The Sex Discrimination Act 1975 (SDA) makes it unlawful to discriminate against an individual on the grounds of gender and marriage, and promotes sexual equality within employment, education, advertising, and provision of housing, goods, services and facilities. The Act was amended in 1986 to ensure that discrimination within small firms, private households and employment, and at the age of retirement, was abolished.

The Sex Discrimination Act 1975 was amended by new Regulations in 2008. The new Regulations include

1. Discrimination on the ground of pregnancy or maternity leave;

2. Harassment;

3. Liability of employers for failing to protect employees from third party harassment;

4. Exception relating to terms and conditions during maternity leave.