Things you can do about workplace violence
Never tolerate workplace violence. Here's some things you can do if you or someone you know is a victim of violence in the workplace:
Tell the employer
Report any incidents to your employer and ask for these to be recorded. Ask for a copy of the incident record immediately.
Tell others
Tell people you trust such as family or friends about incidents of violence. Also tell any workplace health and safety representatives and/or union representatives.
Keep a diary
Include the date, time, who was involved and the names and contact details of any witnesses in your notes. Get photos of any injuries. Diaries can be used as evidence in a court/commission hearing.
See a doctor
It's important to visit a doctor if you've been hurt or injured at work. Tell the doctor to record when violent incidents took place, the nature and extent of any injuries and what treatment if any was necessary. Get medical certificates and photos taken of injuries.
Contact WorkCover
If you believe your health or safety is at risk because of violence or an unsafe work environment contact the Victorian WorkCover Authority (VWA) (new window).
Contact the police
Some forms of workplace violence may actually be criminal acts, e.g. assault, sexual assault or attempts, threats to kill, stalking, etc. In instances where actual physical injury, threats or damage to property occur, contact the police and ask to make a statement.
If a crime was committed, contact the police and insist on making a statement. If you have the names and contact details of witnesses, give these to the police.
If the police officer is reluctant or refuses to take a statement, you can ask to speak to the Sergeant in charge or contact the Community Policing Squad (03 9247 6666) in your area.
Contact CASA (Centres Against Sexual Assault)
If sexual assault or attempted sexual assault has occurred, CASA (new window) provides free crisis counselling, support, information and advocacy. To contact a CASA closest to you call the 24-hour, state-wide, confidential telephone service (free call 1800 806 292).
Get legal advice
There are a range of legal remedies to assist victims of workplace violence including:
- Intervention orders (civil action which can be taken in some instance to stop perpetrators of violence)
- Action taken under various Victorian and Federal legislation (e.g. health and safety, discrimination)
- Compensation for unfair dismissal (a special case of 'constructive dismissal' may apply in instances where a victim is forced to resign because of workplace violence)
- Police investigation in cases of criminal offences e.g. stalking, assault, sexual assault, threats to kill etc.
Contact your local Community Legal Centre (new window) or Job Watch (new window) for legal advice about workplace violence.
For further information, see our Workplace violence page.
Links
Job Watch
Victorian community legal centre specialising in employment law.
Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004
Information about the Victorian legislation and what it means for both employees and employers.
Community Law - Federation of Community Legal Centres
Provides a range of legal resources including topics on employment and discrimination. You can also find the contact details of your nearest Community Legal Centre.
Centre Against Sexual Assault
A range of information and advice about sexual assault and what to do if you have been sexually assaulted. Includes contacts details for local Victorian CASA centres.
Victoria Police - Your Local Police
Search for the contact details of your local police station.
