Safe Work Australia and eSafety have collaborated to release a new set of practical resources aimed at helping employers and workers recognise and respond to online abuse in the workplace.
Online abuse can occur through emails, social media, messaging apps, or phone calls, and can come from anyone connected to the workplace – including colleagues, clients, managers, or suppliers.
With more Australians using digital tools in their daily roles, online safety is an increasingly relevant workplace issue.
The newly released resources – including a downloadable poster and checklist – offer practical guidance on what online abuse looks like, how to prevent it, and where to get help.
Included in the safety checklist are several ideas that employers can rely on to facilitate a safer digital environment, such as choosing software, online platforms and digital tools that prioritise safety inherently, assessing whether existing work platforms and tools meet privacy and security standards, and making online safety education part of the induction process.
These are designed to support employers in meeting their obligations under work health and safety (WHS) laws, which require them to ensure the health and safety of their workers, including in online and remote settings.
Online abuse can lead to serious psychological and physical harm, making prevention and early intervention critical.
These resources equip workplaces with the tools they need to identify risks, create supportive policies, and respond appropriately to incidents.
By addressing abuse that occurs in digital spaces, the new guidance could help organisations take a proactive approach to creating respectful, inclusive workplaces.
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