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Bullying and Harassment What is Bullying? Dealing with Bullying
Bullying Mediation Bullying Investigations Bullying - Worksafe Victoria OHS Bullying Resources

What is Bullying?

So, what exactly is bullying and what would it look like within a workplace context? Although there are many definitions to be found, WorkSafe Victoria defines bullying as: "Bullying is repeated unreasonable behaviour directed towards a worker or group of workers that creates a risk to health and safety."

A large range of behaviours can be considered bullying and can usually be classified as direct or indirect bullying. Some examples of direct bullying are:

• verbal abuse
• putting someone down
• spreading rumours or innuendo about someone
• interfering with someone's personal property or work equipment.

Indirect bullying can be more difficult to identify, some examples of indirect bullying are:

• unjustified criticism, complaints or excessive scrutiny
• excluding or isolating employees
• deliberately denying access to information or other resources
• withholding information that is vital for effective work performance
• setting tasks that are unreasonably above or below a worker’s ability or giving employees impossible assignments
• deliberately changing work rosters to inconvenience particular employees
• setting timelines that are very difficult to achieve