Bullying is repeated, unreasonable behaviour intended to intimidate, belittle, or harm someone—emotionally, psychologically, or physically. In a workplace setting, bullying can look like constant criticism or yelling; being excluded or ignored; insults or mocking in front of others; unfair workload, whether too much or too little; and being undermined or set up to fail.

Workplace bullying is not a one-off disagreement or someone being strict. It’s ongoing, targeted behaviour that causes stress or fear and affects someone’s health and safety. Sometimes it presents as dramatic outbursts like shouting or using abusive language, or mocking or humiliating someone during meetings. But it can also be far sneakier: being excluded from workplace social activities, having demeaning jokes constantly targeted at you, being left out of key communications, being assigned work that's far below or beyond your abilities.

According to the Fair Work Commission (FWC), it’s bullying if someone acts unreasonably toward you; it happens more than once; it creates a risk to your health (think stress, anxiety, burnout).

Silence isn’t golden always—speak up against workplace bullying

Stopping bullying is important because it protects your mental health, safety, and self-worth. In teens, bullying is known to cause PTSD, including long-term emotional scars, anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. It's no different for adults. Bullying creates toxic environments in workplaces, making it hard for people to learn, work, or just feel safe. 

When we stop bullying, we create a culture of kindness, respect, and support where everyone has the chance to grow and thrive. 

If someone’s making your 9-to-5 feel like a war zone, you don’t have to fight alone. There are tools and support available. Here’s a breakdown of how it can be handled.

Recognise the early signs: Bullying isn’t always yelling or name-calling—it can be subtle: exclusion, sabotage, constant criticism, or spreading rumors. Be aware of how coworkers treat each other over time at the workplace.

Speak up, if safe: If you witness bullying, calmly speak up or check in with the person being targeted. You can speak privately with someone who can help, such as your manager or team lead; a health and safety representative; HR personnel; a union representative; a lawyer, if you need legal backup, etc. If you're the one being bullied, document everything—dates, what happened, who was present. 

Report the matter: You can use formal channels, such as HR departments, anonymous hotlines, or direct supervisors to report the matter. Reporting helps build a record and forces a company to address the issue. Document what all happened—dates, times, and what was said or done and mention all details in your complaint. When one person stands up, it gives others permission to do the same.

Push for clear policies: Workplaces should have clear anti-bullying and harassment policies. Encourage training or workshops to promote respectful communication at workplaces. 

Foster a respectful culture: Fostering a respectful culture at work means creating an environment where everyone feels valued, safe, and included. This starts with supporting your coworkers—offering help when needed, checking in, and standing up against unfair treatment. 

Complimenting good work shows appreciation and motivates others, while including everyone in conversations prevents isolation and encourages teamwork. By modeling empathy—listening, being kind, and treating others with understanding—you set the tone for a positive, respectful workplace where everyone can thrive.

Approach Fair Work Commission (FWC): If you’re experiencing workplace bullying and are still employed, Fair Work offers several helpful steps to protect you as given below. 

• Take its Anti-Bullying Eligibility Quiz
• Apply for a Stop Bullying Order
• Get free legal advice through the Workplace Advice Service

Go to the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO): The FWO is the government body that enforces workplace laws in Australia. It protects your rights at work and ensures employers (and others) are following the law—including bullying-related orders made by the FWC. If someone ignores an FWC order, the Ombudsman helps enforce it. It also explains your workplace rights, and gives advice about what to do next.

You can call the FWO, chat online, or even use its anonymous tip-off feature. It offers information in multiple languages and tailored support for vulnerable workers.

Approach the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC): If the bullying is linked to discrimination, the AHRC can step in. It includes sex, race, disability or age discrimination; religious beliefs or irrelevant criminal records. It uses conciliation (think: calm, mediated convo) to sort things out.

Seek help from state and territory bodies: Not everything is federal and you can also take help from state and territory bodies. You can contact your state anti-discrimination body, workplace health and safety authorities. They will give you advice, take complaints, and refer you to the right place.

Consult trade unions: Trade unions aren't just for pay fights. They’re workplace warriors. A union can represent you during disputes, support you emotionally and legally. Union pressure can push your employer to act fast and put a stop to bullying.

Remember, workplace bullying isn’t about being 'tough enough'—it’s about your right to a safe and respectful environment.