Workplace bullying & harassment: spotting signs and getting support
Workplace bullying or workplace harassment is any ongoing harmful or threatening behaviour by a person or group of people in your workplace that creates a risk to your health and safety. It can happen in any kind of job, and the person or group doesn’t need to be a manager or someone in a position of power over you. Even customers or clients can display bullying behaviour.
Bullying and harassment in the workplace are never acceptable. It’s important to understand workplace bullying so you can identify when a situation has crossed the line. If you’re experiencing this, there are practical steps to deal with workplace bullying that can help you regain control and protect your wellbeing.
In Australia, you have legal rights and protections. If internal reporting doesn't resolve the issue, you can seek help through the Fair Work Commission, which has the power to issue ‘stop bullying’ orders to help ensure the behaviour ends. For more information on your options and rights, explore what to do about workplace bullying or visit our broader about bullying hub.
Dealing with a toxic work environment is incredibly draining and can leave you feeling stuck. You don’t have to figure it out alone. Our peer workers provide a safe, anonymous space to talk through your situation and explore your next steps. Connect with ReachOut PeerChat for free online one-on-one support.
Frequently asked questions about workplace bullying
To get support for workplace bullying, you can speak to your HR department, supervisor, or union representative.
For external support, contact the Fair Work Commission (1300 799 675) or your state/territory work safety authority.
Mental health support is available through Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) or Lifeline (13 11 14). Community legal centers or employment lawyers can also provide legal advice if you need it.
Workplace humiliation includes public criticism, mockery, being belittled in front of colleagues, or having your mistakes exaggerated. When someone makes fun of you at work or puts you down in front of others, that's not okay. If it keeps happening, it’s considered workplace bullying. Everyone messes up sometimes, but nobody deserves to be made to feel small for it. Trust your gut – if it feels wrong, it probably is.
Verbal abuse at work is illegal, and you don't have to put up with it. Australian bullying, violence and harassment laws protect you from this kind of treatment, and your employer has a responsibility to make sure your workplace is safe. If someone is verbally abusing you, you can report it. Standing up for yourself might feel scary, but what's happening to you isn't okay and isn't your fault.
Keep a record of incidents with dates and details, and check your workplace policies to understand your rights. You can also report the behaviour to the appropriate people, like HR or management, and seek support from trusted colleagues or mental health professionals.
If the problem isn't resolved, you can contact the Fair Work Commission. Remember to prioritise your wellbeing through this process.
Sometimes customers have bad days, but that doesn't mean they get to take it out on you. You can set clear boundaries about acceptable behaviour, use de-escalation techniques like active listening and empathising, without accepting abuse. If it becomes too much for you to deal with on your own, ask your manager to step in. If the situation becomes unsafe, remove yourself. No job requires you to tolerate abuse, and your employer has a duty of care to protect you.
In Australia, it is illegal for an employer to fire you or treat you unfairly because you reported workplace bullying or made a complaint about your employment. If you feel like you are being targeted or threatened with the loss of your job after speaking up, you can seek help through the Fair Work Commission. It’s a good idea to keep a record of your conversations and any incidents that occur. For more information on your rights and how to handle these situations, check out our guide on what you can do about workplace bullying.