Harassment & Bullying policy template
A comprehensive policy defining unacceptable behaviour including bullying, harassment and discrimination. Includes reporting pathways, investigation procedures and consequences. Essential for every Australian workplace.
Harassment & bullying policy
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Why you need a harassment & bullying policy
Australian employers have legal obligations under the Fair Work Act, Work Health and Safety legislation, and anti-discrimination laws to provide a workplace free from bullying, harassment and discrimination.
A well-drafted policy demonstrates your commitment to a safe workplace and provides clear guidance for employees on what behaviour is unacceptable and how to report concerns. It also protects your business by showing you've taken reasonable steps to prevent and address these issues.
The Fair Work Commission can issue stop bullying orders, and employers can face significant penalties for failing to address workplace harassment. Having a clear policy is your first line of defence. HR software can help you document incidents, track policy acknowledgements and maintain confidential employee records.
Key elements of an effective policy
What your harassment and bullying policy must include
Clear definitions
What constitutes bullying, harassment and discrimination under Australian law.
Zero tolerance
Unequivocal statement that these behaviours will not be tolerated.
Reporting pathways
Multiple ways for employees to raise concerns safely and confidentially.
Investigation process
Fair, transparent procedures for investigating complaints.
Consequences
Clear disciplinary outcomes for substantiated complaints.
Protection from retaliation
Safeguards for employees who report concerns in good faith.
What's included in this template
Comprehensive coverage of harassment and bullying prevention
Purpose & commitment
The organisation's commitment to a safe, respectful workplace.
Scope & application
Who the policy covers and when it applies.
Definitions
Clear explanations of bullying, harassment, sexual harassment and discrimination.
Examples of behaviour
Specific examples to help employees understand what's unacceptable.
Responsibilities
What's expected of employees, managers and the organisation.
Reporting procedures
How to raise concerns through formal and informal channels.
Investigation process
How complaints are assessed, investigated and resolved.
Outcomes & consequences
Possible outcomes including disciplinary action.
Support & resources
Available support for affected employees.
Review & acknowledgement
Policy maintenance and employee sign-off.
Understanding the key definitions
What constitutes bullying, harassment and discrimination under Australian law
Workplace bullying
Under the Fair Work Act, workplace bullying occurs when a person or group repeatedly behaves unreasonably towards a worker, and that behaviour creates a risk to health and safety. Single incidents are generally not bullying, but may still be misconduct.
Examples include verbal abuse, excluding or isolating employees, spreading rumours, assigning meaningless tasks, or withholding information needed to do the job.
Sexual harassment
Sexual harassment is any unwelcome sexual advance, request for sexual favours, or conduct of a sexual nature that a reasonable person would find offensive, humiliating or intimidating. Unlike bullying, a single incident can constitute sexual harassment.
Examples include inappropriate comments about appearance, sharing sexual content, unwanted physical contact, or making decisions based on someone's response to sexual advances.
Discrimination
Discrimination occurs when someone is treated less favourably because of a protected attribute such as age, disability, race, sex, pregnancy, religion, sexual orientation, or other characteristics protected under Australian law.
This includes both direct discrimination (treating someone worse because of a protected attribute) and indirect discrimination (rules or practices that disadvantage people with certain attributes).
Who should use this template?
Every Australian employer needs a harassment and bullying policy
Legal disclaimer
This template is designed to reflect Australian workplace standards and Fair Work principles at the time of publication. It is provided as a general guide only and does not constitute legal advice.
You should review and tailor this template to suit your business, industry, modern award, enterprise agreement and specific workplace circumstances. For complex situations or disputes, seek independent legal or HR advice.
Regulatory sources
This template is aligned with Australian workplace and anti-discrimination requirements.
Ready to protect your workplace?
Download our comprehensive Harassment & Bullying policy template and demonstrate your commitment to a safe, respectful workplace.
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View templateDisclaimer
This document is a general HR template provided for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and may not reflect the latest changes in legislation or apply to every workplace situation. RosterElf Pty Ltd and the template provider accept no liability for any loss arising from reliance on this document. Users should seek independent legal advice and customise the template to ensure it complies with all relevant laws, awards and workplace requirements.