Workplace Bullying and Harassment Toolbox Talk Template

Purpose of this document

This free WHS resource provides a structured Workplace Bullying and Harassment Toolbox Talk Template. Designed to assist Australian organisations in fostering mentally healthy and respectful workplaces, this template is a critical tool for addressing psychosocial hazards.

It facilitates open discussions about workplace behaviour, identifying potential bullying and harassment, and understanding prevention strategies. By regularly conducting toolbox talks on this crucial topic, you can reinforce your organisation's commitment to psychological safety, ensuring all workers feel supported and aware of their responsibilities and reporting mechanisms.

The template covers key definitions, examples of bullying and harassment, the impact on individuals and the organisation, and the steps workers can take if they experience or witness such behaviour. It aligns with Australian WHS practice by promoting proactive risk management and encouraging consultation, which are fundamental to developing robust WHS management systems. Utilise this template to promote a culture where respectful interactions are the norm and inappropriate behaviour is not tolerated.

How to use this Toolbox Talk

This Workplace Bullying and Harassment Toolbox Talk Template is provided in an editable DOCX format, along with a PDF version for easy distribution. Before conducting your toolbox talk, download the DOCX file and customise it to reflect your specific workplace environment, policies, and procedures. This template is a starting point; it must be customised to your workplace, integrating your organisation's code of conduct, incident reporting procedures, and support services.

Review the content, add any specific examples relevant to your industry, and tailor the discussion points to address known psychosocial risks within your organisation. Present the information clearly, encourage participation, and be prepared to answer questions.

Ensure all workers in attendance sign the attendance register, which is crucial for demonstrating that information and training have been provided. Save the customised template and attendance record as part of your WHS documentation.

When to use it

This Toolbox Talk should be used regularly as part of your ongoing WHS program, particularly:

• During new worker inductions to establish expectations from the outset.
• When there are changes to workplace policies regarding conduct and behaviour.
• Following any reported incidents of bullying or harassment to reinforce preventative measures and reporting pathways.
• As a scheduled refresher to maintain awareness and ensure all workers remain informed about their rights and responsibilities.
• During periods of organisational change or increased workplace stress, which can sometimes heighten the risk of psychosocial hazards.
• As part of a broader strategy to address identified psychosocial risks, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement in workplace safety.

Who should use it

This Workplace Bullying and Harassment Toolbox Talk Template is designed for:

• Supervisors and Team Leaders responsible for managing teams and promoting positive workplace culture.
• Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) who advocate for worker safety and well-being.
• WHS Managers and Coordinators tasked with implementing and maintaining WHS programs.
• Human Resources Professionals involved in developing and enforcing workplace behaviour policies.
• Any person responsible for facilitating team meetings or communicating WHS information to workers.
• Organisations committed to preventing workplace bullying and harassment and fostering a safe psychological environment for all workers.