Workplace Bullying
Under the Workers Compensation Act 1987, an injury for which compensation may be payable includes the aggravation of a psychological or psychiatric disorder. Such injury arising from bullying can be compensable, but the aggravation must arise out of or in the course of employment.
Bullying Claims
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.
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.
Fighting for Your Rights in New South Wales
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