No one should feel anxious walking to work. Yet workplace bullying continues to affect thousands of workers across Australia, often in silence. Whether it’s shouting, intimidation, exclusion, or repeated put-downs, bullying isn’t “just part of the culture.” It’s unacceptable, and it’s against the law.
What Is Workplace Bullying?
Workplace bullying is more than just a personality clash. It involves repeated, unreasonable behavior that creates a risk to your health and safety. This could include:
- Verbal abuse or yelling
- Humiliation or belittling
- Excluding someone from work-related activities
- Withholding information required to do a job
- Setting impossible deadlines or workloads
This behavior can come from a manager, co-worker, or even a group, and it often leaves the target feeling isolated, stressed, or afraid to speak up.
You Don’t Have to Tolerate It
Bullying can seriously impact your mental health, confidence, and ability to do your job. But you’re not powerless. Workers have the right to a safe and respectful workplace, and there are legal protections in place through the Fair Work Commission and Work Health and Safety laws.
Unions provide expert support to workers experiencing bullying: offering advice, advocacy, and representation to help stop the abuse and protect your rights.
When Management Ignores It, Unions Don’t
Too often, bullying complaints are swept under the rug or met with retaliation. But when you’re part of a union, you’re never alone. Your union can help escalate the issue, demand accountability, and support you through formal complaints or legal action if needed.
Unions have a long history of improving workplace culture, not just for individuals, but across entire industries.
Speak Up. Get Support. Take Action.
Workplace bullying is never “just the way things are.” You have the right to be safe, respected, and supported at work. If bullying is happening to you or someone you know, it’s time to reach out.
Recognizing the Signs of Bullying at Work
Workplace bullying involves repeated, harmful actions that threaten your well-being. It’s not just “tough love” or personality differences—it’s behavior like shouting, exclusion, humiliation, and unreasonable demands. These actions often leave people feeling anxious, unmotivated, and alone.
Whether the bullying comes from a supervisor, peer, or group, the effects are damaging and persistent.
The Hidden Toll on Health and Performance
Bullying doesn’t just stay at work—it follows your home. It can lead to stress, anxiety, depression, and even physical illness. Your self-esteem and confidence take a hit, impacting your ability to work and live well. But in Australia, you’re legally protected under Fair Work and Work Health and Safety laws.
How Unions Help You Fight Back
If your employer isn’t taking bullying seriously, your union can. Unions offer support, guide you through complaint processes, and stand by you every step of the way. They help protect your rights and push for change in the workplace culture.
You Deserve Respect—Take a Stand
Bullying is not “just part of the job.” It’s unacceptable. If it’s happening to you or someone you know, reach out, speak up, and take action. You are not alone—and help is available.
