Workplace bullying (also referred to as workplace harassment) is defined as repeated and unreasonable behaviour, directed towards a worker or a group of workers, that creates a risk to health and safety.
Speak with one of our lawyers for legal advice and support on workplace bullying.
In a workplace context, an employer can be held liable for the acts of its employees – this is known as vicarious liability. If an employee has been bullied at work, their employer may be required to pay them compensation.
In 2014, the Supreme Court of Queensland awarded an employee of Sussan’s Cairns Central Store compensation of more than $200,000.
The compensation was granted following the Court’s finding that the employee (an assistant manager) had been bullied by the store manager. The bullying occurred over a period of 11 days, and included unwarranted criticism and being excluded from matters of business management.
The court decided that the employer (Sussan Corporation) was liable for the store manager’s bullying behaviour, because the employer failed to provide the assistant manager with support, made no attempt to investigate a complaint made by the assistant manager, and did not comply with their own bullying and harassment policy.
Keegan v Sussan Corporation (Aust.) Pty Ltd [2014] QSC 64
If you have been bullied or harassed at work, we can provide you with advice on your options to resolve the matter.
Your options may include:
Our lawyers will review your situation and help you review your options – contact us today.
If you have been injured at work as a result of being bullied, you may be able to lodge a workers compensation claim. Contact our workplace injury experts at Cairns Injury Lawyers for advice on your options and to help you to lodge a compensation claim.
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