What can I do if I am accused of workplace bullying or harassment?

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Being accused of bullying behaviour can be upsetting and come as a shock but it is important to be open to feedback from others, and if necessary, be prepared to change your behaviour.

Give the complaint serious consideration

If someone approaches you about your behaviour try to remain calm and avoid aggravating what is likely to be an already difficult situation.

Listen carefully to the particular concerns expressed. Discuss how you might work together more effectively.

The other person is more likely to share their views with you if you choose a neutral space and ask open questions without attempting to justify your behaviour. Even so, the other person may not be comfortable speaking to you. It may be appropriate to suggest that they, or both of you, invite a support person or observer.

Seek an objective opinion about the behaviour

If you do not understand the complaint or would like a second opinion about your behaviour, discuss the matter with someone you trust.  An EAP counsellor may be able to assist you to:

• understand the issues
• suggest ways to address the matter with your colleague and manager
• manage your responses to the allegations.

Your manager, your Advice and Support Director or an HSR for your workgroup  may be able to assist you to explore the options available to you within MOP(S) Act employment. Any discussion should be careful and strictly confidential. It is important not to unintentionally escalate the situation by discussing the issue openly.

If you believe the complaint is malicious, or you can demonstrate that you are being unjustly accused, you should discuss this with your manager or Advice and Support Director. It may be that an informal discussion between you, the person making the allegation and a third party will solve the problem.

Adjust unreasonable behaviour

If you have been made aware that your behaviour is considered unreasonable, stop or modify the behaviour and review what you are doing.

If, after careful consideration, you believe that your behaviour is reasonable management action, you should discuss this with your supervisor, manager, or Advice and Support Director. Even in those circumstances, it may be possible to modify future management action to minimise the risk that others might find it unreasonable.

If you are found to have continued to bully someone after their objection to your bullying behaviour was made known to you, your persistence, or the fact that you have not modified your behaviour, is likely to be taken into account in disciplinary or other proceedings

Where can I find more information about workplace bullying and harassment?

For more information about workplace bullying and harassment:

• View Workplace Bullying and Harassment Policy
• View WHS Library

HR support and resources

MOP(S) Act employees can access a range of HR support services provided by MaPS:

• The EAP provides independent professional counselling service to employees and their families/household. You can call our EAP provider, JLT Assure, on 1800 945 145, email info@assureprograms.com.au or book online at EAP Appointment Request.
• NewAccess workplaces is a free and confidential mental health coaching service available to all MOP(S) Act employees. You will be provided with 6 sessions with the coach, with a follow up session at one month and six months.
• The MaPS website has some useful Resources, including the Workplace Bullying and Harassment Policy.
• MaPS also has a WHS Library that has a series of health and wellbeing resources including articles, fact sheets and links to websites for information on WHS topics, including: bullying and harassment; workplace safety; self-help and more.
• It is also open to all employees to contact MaPS directly at mpshelp@finance.gov.au or by calling 6215 3333 for advice and support.