CPSU believes all employees deserve to be treated with dignity and respect at work.
This guide is intended as general advice only - CPSU members should contact the Members Service Centre on 1300 137 636 for advice and support specific to your individual circumstances.
CPSU advocates taking a proactive approach to address issues before things get out of hand.
What should you do if you feel you're being bullied or harassed?
Know the rules: Most organisations have policies that specifically deal with workplace conflict - including processes for resolving conflict - so make sure you are familiar with guidelines that apply in your workplace.
Keep a record: Often resolving cases of bullying or harassment relies on your ability to demonstrate patterns of unacceptable behaviour over time. Keeping brief notes can help mediators gain a better understanding of history of the relationship and identify ways in which the situation can be resolved. From an individual perspective it can often help to express thoughts and emotions rather than keeping it all 'bottled up'.
Break the silence: There are people you can talk to on a confidential basis. CPSU members can call the Member Service Centre for individual advice and support on 1300 137 636. Many workplaces have a harassment contact officer who is trained to confidentially listen to your concerns and give advice about your options to resolve the situation. Most public servants also have access to a limited no-fee counseling service where you can discuss issues away from the workplace.
Not a member yet?
It's easy to join - just click on the Join CPSU online button at the top right hand corner of your screen or call 1300 137 636.
Useful link
AHRC The Australian Human Rights Commission can help with discrimination on the grounds of race, colour or ethnic origin , racial vilification , sex, sexual harassment, marital status, pregnancy, or disability. [read more]APSC Current advice on harassment and bullying from the Australian Public Service Commission. [read more]
