Work Health and Safety legislation dictates that psychological health risks from bullying and harassment must be managed, like any other physical health and safety risk. Such behaviours can have a significant negative impact on individuals and the workplace.
The Workplace Relations team at the MTA have recently seen an increase in members dealing with workplace bullying and harassment issues. This reflects a national trend of accepted workers compensation psychological injury claims (a week or more off work) increasing by 37% from 2017 and 2022.
In Australia, there are 47 workers compensation claims approved each working day that result in the injured worker losing more than a week off work. The cost to the Australian economy from workplace bullying is listed as $36 billion dollars each year. The median compensation cost of claims relating to a mental health claim is $58,615 compared to $15,743 for physical injury claims.
Further to the direct cost impact of mental health claims is the impact on the workforce with mental health claims requiring around 34 weeks of recovery compared to 8 weeks for physical injuries. There are also significant barriers for returning employees who have suffered psychological injury, and if workplace bullying is involved this may require a restructuring of your workforce.
The modern workplace.
Today’s workplace is facing changing behaviour expectations from both society and legislation with workplace behaviours that once may have been part of the Australian workplace culture now considered illegal and harmful.
To assist members in adapting to the changing workplace needs, the MTA can provide training to assist your business in providing a safer and more productive work environment. Our in-depth training covers:
– defining bullying behaviour,
– examining the legal responsibilities of employees,
– providing examples of what is and isn’t bullying in the workplace, and
– steps to address workplace bullying and harassment.
For further information about our training options, or if you need advice or support to manage bullying or harassment in the workplace, please ring the MTA Workplace Relations team on 08 8291 2000 or email wr@mtasant.com.au
