What is bullying?
Bullying is when a person or multiple people repeatedly and intentionally use words or actions against someone to cause them distress. This can look like:
- Behaving aggressively towards someone or intimidating them.
- Teasing or playing practical jokes.
- Pressuring someone to behave inappropriately.
- Excluding someone or groups of people from work events and conversations.
- Intimidation.
- Discriminatory behaviour, including insults or jokes around age, ability, race, religion, gender, or sexuality.
How can I spot bullying in the workplace?
Sometimes, you might not see the bullying in action, but you might be concerned for a colleague or friend. Some signs that someone is being bullied include:
- Changes in mood or behaviour.
- Declining work performance.
- Avoidance of things previously enjoyed or avoidance of work.
- Increased conflict with others.
- Social withdrawal.
- Neglect of appearance or self-care.
What can I do if I witness bullying?
There are plenty of actions you can take if you witness bullying, depending on how safe you feel to do so. Here are some steps you can take, based on your situation and comfort level.
- Don’t join in. Don’t laugh along with or encourage bullying behaviour: this normalises bullying and makes it more acceptable.
- Call out bullying. If you feel comfortable and safe, say something to the person responsible for the bullying. Let them know you don’t support their behaviour or report them to your manager.
- Seek help. Support the person being bullied to approach their manager or relevant contact and let them know you’re here to listen.
What does my employer have to do if I report bullying? What do I do if they’re not taking action?
Workplaces in Victoria and throughout Australia have a legal obligation to support their employees’ psychological safety under the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act 2004, the Fair Work Act 2009, as well the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. If an employer fails to do this, they can face penalties.
If you feel like your employer is not taking action after they’ve received a report of bullying, you can contact WorkSafe Victoria or the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission for advice.
I don’t feel comfortable speaking to my employer about bullying. What can I do?
It’s always easier to confide in someone you feel comfortable with – and sometimes, your employer might not be that person. Don’t worry – there is free, confidential support available to you in the Resources section below.
Resources
If you’re looking for support or guidance around workplace bullying, you can access it here.
Apprentice help and wellbeing support
Find resources and services available to you.
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