Workplace Bullying in Australia: What It Looks Like and How to Take Action
A safe and respectful workplace is a basic right for all workers. Unfortunately, workplace bullying remains a serious issue across many Australian industries, affecting mental health, productivity, and job security. Whether it’s subtle intimidation or outright harassment, it’s important to recognise the signs and know how to respond. This guide on workplace bullying will help you understand your rights and where to turn for support.
What Is Workplace Bullying?
Workplace bullying is repeated, unreasonable behaviour directed towards an employee or group of employees that creates a risk to health and safety. It can come from a manager, co-worker, or even a client.
Examples of Bullying Behaviour Include:
- Verbal abuse or offensive language
- Spreading rumours or malicious gossip
- Intimidation, threats, or unjustified criticism
- Excluding someone from workplace activities
- Undermining someone’s work or deliberately withholding information
It’s important to note that reasonable management action carried out in a fair way (e.g. performance reviews or discipline for misconduct) is not considered bullying.
The Impact of Workplace Bullying
Workplace bullying doesn’t just affect your day-to-day comfort—it can have serious consequences for your mental and physical health, including:
- Anxiety and depression
- Loss of self-esteem and motivation
- Sleep disturbances and physical illness
- Increased absenteeism or resignations
Left unaddressed, bullying also affects team morale, productivity, and can expose employers to legal risks.
What to Do If You’re Experiencing Workplace Bullying
If you believe you’re being bullied at work, it’s important to act early. Here are the steps to take:
- Document Everything – Keep a written record of incidents, dates, times, witnesses, and any evidence (e.g. emails).
- Speak to Someone You Trust – This could be a supervisor, HR representative, or union delegate.
- Check Your Workplace Policy – Most workplaces have a policy on bullying and how to lodge a complaint.
- Make a Formal Complaint – If informal steps don’t work, consider submitting a formal complaint through your organisation.
- Seek Help from External Bodies – If the issue isn’t resolved internally, you can contact:
- Fair Work Commission for Stop Bullying orders
- Safe Work Australia for health and safety advice
The Role of Unions in Combating Workplace Bullying
Unions play a crucial role in protecting workers from bullying. They can:
- Provide support and representation in complaints and disputes
- Ensure employers follow proper procedures
- Negotiate stronger anti-bullying provisions in enterprise agreements
- Campaign for safer, fairer workplace cultures
Why Union Support Makes a Difference
- You’re not alone. You have someone in your corner
- Access to expert workplace advice
- Collective strength to push back against toxic behaviour
Everyone Deserves a Safe Workplace
Workplace bullying is never acceptable. Every worker has the right to feel safe, respected, and supported at work. If you’re experiencing bullying, don’t stay silent. Document it, report it, and seek support.
For guidance, speak to your union, check your workplace policies, or contact the Fair Work Commission. Together, we can create workplaces where dignity, respect, and safety come first.
