Harassment & bullying

There are many instances of conduct that would constitute harassment or bullying. Harassment is generally defined as behaviour that:

– You do not want;

– Offends, humiliates or intimidates you;

– Creates a hostile environment.

The Anti-Discrimination Board of New South Wales administers anti-harassment or bullying laws and handles complaints of such conduct under the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977. In New South Wales it is against the law to harass someone because of their:

– Sex;

– Pregnancy;

– Breastfeeding;

– Race;

– Marital or domestic status;

– Homosexuality;

– Disability;

– Transgender status;

The law applies generally to the following situations:

– In employment – when you apply for a job, licence or registration to perform a job;

– When you get or try to get goods or services from shops, banks or other providers;

– When you apply to get into or are studying in any educational institution;

– When you rent accommodation;

– When you try to enter or join a registered club.

You can make an application in Fair Work Commission for an order to stop the bullying. You may also have entitlements under the Workers Compensation Act for compensation as a result of the bullying and harassment you have encountered in your workplace.

Should you wish to pursue, or discuss the next steps available for lodging a harassment and bullying claim than we encourage you to contact Brydens Lawyers. At the initial consultation we will explain to you the different avenues you can take either through the Fair Work Commission and/or by lodging an application for workers compensation entitlements.

Brydens Lawyers pride themselves on investigating matters and reaching desired outcomes for clients. It is unfortunate that the Employment team here at Brydens Lawyers have represented many employees that have been bullied and harassed in the workplace. We will continue to provide empathetic, supportive and dedicated services to ensure our clients receive the best outcome available to them.