In its most recent communication WorkSafe Victoria has advised IMEs about appropriate use of “gendered” language. I make no commentary other than to note the threat if you do not comply. Who would be an IME?.
The full document reads as follows.
Gendered language
WorkSafe has developed a guide for IMEs about the appropriate use of gendered language.
Binary male/female language expressed through gender specific terms, such as husband/wife, and gendered pronouns, such as he/she, do not always appropriately reflect our community diversity.
The Guide
This document provides Independent Medical Examiners (IMEs) with a guide to the appropriate use of gendered language.
Binary male/female language, expressed through the use of gender specific terms, such as husband/wife, and gendered pronouns, such as he/she, do not always appropriately reflect the diversity of our community.
The Victorian Government’s Inclusive Language Guide defines misgendering as:
Using language to refer to a person that is not aligned with how that person identifies their own gender or body. Most but not all intersex and trans people who identify as male prefer to be referred to as ‘he’. Most but not all intersex and trans people who identify as female prefer to be referred to as ‘she’. Some people prefer to be described with their first name only or a non-binary pronoun such as ‘they’ rather than a gendered pronoun.
To avoid misgendering, the use of gender-neutral pronouns such as they, them or their may be more appropriate in some circumstances. Gender-neutral pronouns, such as ‘zie’ and ‘hir’, may also be used. Most importantly, pronouns used should align with those requested by the person and should be used consistently. If you are unsure, respectfully ask the person what their preferred pronoun is and ensure that you use this pronoun when communicating.
Misgendering of a person may amount to a breach of the IME Service Standards. Please refer to ‘Conduct during examination’ in the IME Service Standards for more information.
November 2017
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