Toxic workplace: what do I do?

If you’re in a toxic workplace, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself and decide whether to stay, escalate the issue, or leave.

Below is a structured approach you could take.

Identify the toxic behaviours

A workplace is toxic if it involves:



🚩 Bullying & Harassment – Verbal abuse, exclusion, threats.

🚩 Micromanagement & Excessive Control – Lack of trust in employees.

🚩 Discrimination – Unfair treatment based on race, gender, disability, etc.

🚩 Unrealistic Workloads – Constant overwork without support.

🚩 Fear & Retaliation – Speaking up leads to punishment.

Document everything

📝 Keep records of incidents (dates, times, locations, people involved).

Try to address it internally

📌 Talk to HR or a manager (if safe to do so).

📌 Request mediation or a workplace review.

📌 Follow company policies on workplace complaints.

💡 If HR is part of the problem, or you fear retaliation, consider external options.

Report to external authorities

If internal reporting fails, you may be eligible to take formal action, such as the following options:

🚨 Fair Work Commission (FWC)

• For workplace bullying → Apply for a Stop Bullying Order.
• For unfair treatment → Consider a General Protections claim.

🔗 Apply online: www.fwc.gov.au

🚨 SafeWork NSW

• If the toxic workplace is affecting your health or safety, you could report it to SafeWork NSW.

📞 Call 13 10 50

🔗 Lodge a complaint online: www.safework.nsw.gov.au

🚨 Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC)

• If the toxicity includes discrimination (race, gender, disability, sexual harassment, etc.), you may be able to file a complaint with the AHRC.

🔗 Lodge a complaint: www.humanrights.gov.au

Seek Legal Advice

Consult an employment lawyer on your options.

If you need advice, reach out to highly experienced employment lawyers today.

ID 341271908 | Toxic Workplace © Andrei Dodonov | Dreamstime.com