Harassment & bullying
Harassment is unwelcome conduct that humiliates, offends or intimidates people.
Under Australian anti-discrimination law an employer, regardless of size, may be legally responsible for discrimination and harassment which occurs in the workplace. Employers must actively implement precautionary measures to minimise the risk of discrimination and harassment occurring.
Bullying is another form of workplace harassment that many employers must address. Examples of bullying behaviour include:
- unfair and excessive criticism
- publicly insulting victims
- constantly changing or setting unrealistic work targets
- undervaluing employees' efforts at work.
As an employer, you should be aware of the legal risks associated with harassment and bullying and the steps that can be taken to minimise your potential liability.
What to do...
- See the Australian Human Rights Commission's information about anti-discrimination policies and complaint handling for small business and workplace bullying.
- Visit the Fair Work Ombudsman website for information on workplace rights and rules.
- Order the Australian Human Rights Commission's 'Good practice, good business' Employers pack.
- Go to your state or territory antidiscrimination agency for advice.
- Find out about harassment and bullying in your state or territory.
This content is supplied to Flying Solo via business.gov.au,
the Australian Government's principal website for business information and resources.
