Hire Lawyers To Address Bullying & Discrimination In The Workplace

Hire Lawyers To Address Bullying & Discrimination In The Workplace

Overview

We can implement strategies to address physical, verbal, and social bullying or psychological abuse by an employer or co-worker. We will develop and advise on recruitment practices, education, training and procedures that comply with discrimination laws.

Our team can guide you through policy creation, regulatory updates, employee training and more. Let’s address these issues together, fostering a safer, respectful work environment. If you are facing an bullying or discrimination claim, or would like to be proactive to ensure you minimise your risks, reach out to find out how we can help.

Are you facing bullying or harassment claims?

Our experienced team can assist you in crafting comprehensive policies and procedures that comply with the latest regulations. We will also keep you updated with any regulatory changes affecting your business and obligations towards your employees.

Our approach is to mitigate any risks before they become issues. We also offer training sessions to educate your employees about their rights and responsibilities, fostering a respectful work environment.

If instances of bullying or harassment do occur, our team can guide you through the dispute process and help you understand your options. Should legal action be necessary, we can represent your interests in negotiations, mediation, or court proceedings.

What is discrimination and harassment?

Discrimination occurs when a person is treated unequally due to certain characteristics. This can take place in various environments, including the workplace. As an employer, you have obligations to safeguard your employees from unfair treatment.

Discrimination occurs when a person is treated differently due to their:

  • Race
  • Skin colour
  • Gender
  • Age
  • Physical or mental disability
  • Marital or parental status
  • Family or caregiver duties
  • Pregnancy status
  • Religious beliefs
  • Lawful sexual activities
  • Trade union involvement

Discrimination is harmful to your business

Under the Fair Work Act 2009 and Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 (Qld), there can be serious consequences if a business or person is found guilty of discrimination.

For businesses, each act of discrimination can lead to a fine of up to $33,000. The fine for individuals involved in the discrimination can be up to $6,600 for each incident. The Court or Commission may also order the company to stop the discriminatory behaviour or even reinstate an unfairly treated employee.

At NB Employment, we offer businesses of all sizes practical guidance on preventing and identifying workplace discrimination.

We can work with you to:
  • Help establish hiring practices that adhere to anti-discrimination laws
  • Ensure all employees receive proper education and training about the different types of unlawful discrimination
  • Train supervisors to recognise instances of illegal discrimination
  • Develop and implement policies and procedures that set appropriate standards for employee behaviour in the workplace
  • Assist in managing and defending against complaints about unlawful discrimination lodged by current or former employees

What is workplace bullying?

Workplace bullying happens when one or more people consistently act unreasonably towards an employee or a group of employees, creating a risk to their health and safety.

The Fair Work Act 2009 specifies that legitimate and reasonable management actions are not considered bullying. This means a manager has the right to carry out their duties fairly and reasonably without it being classified as bullying.

Our team is here to help you implement strategies for reasonable management actions. We can guide you in managing your workers fairly, respectfully, and in line with the law.

Workplace bullying can involve physical, verbal, social, or psychological harm caused by an employer or a co-worker. This can happen anywhere, from private businesses and retail stores to government offices.

Workplace bullying may include any of the following negative behaviours:
  • Making hurtful comments to an employee
  • Showing aggressive or intimidating behaviour
  • Engaging in teasing, practical jokes, or initiation ceremonies
  • Displaying offensive materials
  • Excluding someone from work-related events
  • Spreading harmful rumours

As a responsible employer, it’s vital to recognise and address issues of discrimination, harassment, and workplace bullying. These behaviours are unethical and harmful to your employees’ well-being and can have serious legal and financial consequences for your business.

At NB Employment, we’re dedicated to helping you navigate these complex issues. We can assist in establishing fair hiring practices, providing employee training, developing effective policies, and managing complaints. Fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive work environment is not just the right thing to do – it’s also good business.

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