(Updates with a Fortescue statement in the fourth and fifth paragraphs)
Fortescue (ASX:FMG) allegedly failed to protect female employees and contractors in Australia from sexual discrimination, harassment, and a hostile work environment, according to a class-action lawsuit filed in Australia's Federal Court on Thursday.
Law firm JGA Saddler, which filed the complaint, said reports of sexual harassment at Fortescue have been rising, but they "severely understate the true extent of sexual harassment" at the mining firm.
It noted that Fortescue disclosed 31 allegations of sexual harassment at its Western Australian sites in 2020.
In a statement to, Fortescue said it has not yet seen the new claim. A spokeswoman said that the company is committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for all employees.
Fortescue's CEO of Metals and Operations, Dino Otranto, told reporters earlier on Thursday that the company takes the allegations "very seriously" and has more work to do to foster an open and inclusive workplace.
The company's shares fell 1% in recent Thursday trade.