Workplace bullying

Workplace bullying is repeated and unreasonable behaviour directed towards a worker or a group of workers that creates a risk to health and safety.

It is a risk to health and safety because it may affect the psychological and physical health of workers. Taking steps to prevent it from occurring and responding quickly if it does is the best way to deal with workplace bullying.

It can occur in any workplace and can be harmful to you if you experience or witness it.

 

If you're experiencing bullying or other psychosocial hazards in your workplace you may raise the issue with SafeWork NSW by completing our request for service form. We can provide assistance within the scope of our legislative responsibilities. Read about how we can help or call us on 13 10 50 for more information.

Some examples of potential workplace bullying include:

  • abusive or offensive language or comments
  • aggressive and intimidating behaviour
  • belittling or humiliating comments
  • practical jokes or initiation
  • unjustified criticism or complaints
  • deliberately excluding someone from workplace activities
  • withholding information that is needed for work.

Everyone at work can help ensure that bullying does not occur. It is important to respond quickly because the longer bullying continues, the more difficult it is to address and the harder it becomes to repair working relationships.

There may be other workplace factors which contribute to workplace bullying. For more information see the SafeWork NSW Code of Practice Managing Psychosocial Hazards at Work.

How to prevent and respond to workplace bullying

For employers or business (or other PCBUs) who have a duty to ensure the health and safety of their workers, Safe Work Australia's Guide for preventing and responding to workplace bullying outlines what workplace bullying is and how to prevent, respond to and investigate it.

For workers, Dealing with workplace bullying – a worker's guide helps you know if bullying is occurring and how it may be resolved. It's a useful guide if you believe you are experiencing or witnessing workplace bullying or if you have had a bullying report made against you.

Our mental health page provides more information on preventing and responding to the factors which may increase the risk of workplace bullying, and managing mental health in the workplace.

What to do if attempts to resolve bullying have failed

If you want assistance, it's important to know who to contact for your situation.

 
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