What can I do about bullying and harassment?
- Keep a diary — Note dates, times, what was said/done, and who witnessed it. If employer records are incomplete, your diary can be critical evidence.
- Make an internal complaint — Follow your employer’s bullying/harassment or grievance policy (often on the intranet or via HR). Written complaints should list several concrete examples with dates, times, quotes and witnesses. You are usually entitled to a support person at meetings.
- Report to the WHS regulator — Each state/territory has a regulator that can investigate OHS/WHS breaches:
- NT WorkSafe
- SafeWork NSW
- SafeWork SA
- WorkSafe QLD
- WorkSafe ACT
- WorkSafe Tasmania
- WorkSafe Victoria
- WorkSafe WA
Regulators have finite resources and may be selective about investigations.
- Apply to the Fair Work Commission — The FWC has limited “stop bullying” jurisdiction for employees of constitutional corporations or Commonwealth agencies (some local governments can qualify). The FWC can make orders to stop the bullying but cannot award compensation. Matters may be managed by private conciliation or hearings. This path can be demanding.
- Consider a workers’ compensation claim — Bullying can cause a psychosocial injury. Claims usually require medical evidence that the condition is work‑caused. Insurers often reject claims where conduct is arguably reasonable management action. Seek specialist advice.