Participate in WHS consultative processes
2. Raising WHS issues
2.2. Support for more complex WHS issues
Some WHS issues may be straightforward, easier to discuss and resolve such as broken furniture or poor lighting etc. Other WHS issues such as discrimination or workplace bullying may be more complex and difficult to raise.
In the case of an incident involving workplace safety (which includes bullying and harassment), you should follow the established process and promptly report the incident by contacting the authorised WHS officer for your organisation using the correct channels.
People who can assist you to raise complex issues such as discrimination or sexually inappropriate behaviour at work, may include:
- Your Health and Safety representative (HSR)
- A supervisor you trust
- Risk and compliance officer
- Union representatives and OHS specialists
- Worksafe representatives
- Fair Work Australia, Ombudsmen.
As you saw in the DET OHS flowchart, when issues are unresolved through an organisation’s internal process, there are external bodies who are able to mediate and assist.
WorkSafe Victoria - https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/resources/discrimination-health-and-safety-grounds
Fair Work Australia - https://www.fairwork.gov.au/horticulture-showcase/workplace-health-safety
Australian workers Unions - https://www.awu.net.au/vic/our-branch/safety/