October is Safe Work Month in Western Australia, and this year’s theme, “health and safety is everybody’s business” is a timely reminder that workplace wellbeing is a collective responsibility.  

It’s not just about policies and procedures – true workplace safety stems from a culture where every individual understands and accepts their responsibility in creating a secure, supportive environment. 

Why is this message so important right now? Let’s look at the statistics and explore how collective action can change the narrative around workplace health, safety, and wellbeing. 

The Reality of Unlawful Workplace Behaviour 

Despite advancements in workplace laws and safety regulations, unlawful workplace behaviour remains a persistent issue in Australia. Bullying, harassment, discrimination, and unsafe practices are still widespread, leaving many employees at risk of both physical and psychological harm. A recent report from the Australian Human Rights Commission highlights some alarming statistics: 

• 39% of workers have experienced bullying in the workplace at some point in their careers. 
• One in three workers in Australia has been subjected to workplace harassment, with women and minorities facing disproportionately higher rates. 
• The financial cost of workplace injuries and illnesses to the Australian economy is estimated at $61.8 billion each year. 

These figures paint a troubling picture. Unsafe and unlawful behaviours not only harm individuals but also undermine the broader workplace culture, leading to decreased morale, higher absenteeism, and increased turnover. This, in turn, impacts productivity, profitability, and the overall reputation of an organisation. 

Why Collective Responsibility is Crucial 

The “health and safety is everybody’s business” theme emphasises the importance of collective responsibility. It’s easy to assume that safety falls solely on management, HR, or dedicated safety officers. But the truth is that unsafe behaviours often go unnoticed, unreported, or unaddressed when only a handful of people are expected to monitor the situation. 

This is where collective action comes in. By fostering a culture where every individual feels responsible for the health and safety of their peers, we can create a stronger, safer, and more supportive workplace. Here are some practical suggestions: 

• Empowering employees: One of the biggest barriers to addressing unlawful behaviour is silence. Employees may fear retaliation, feel embarrassed, or worry about being labelled as troublemakers. Creating a culture where it’s safe to speak up – where reporting hazards or calling out inappropriate behaviour is encouraged – can help reduce the prevalence of these issues. 
• Leading by example: When leaders consistently demonstrate safe behaviours and openly discuss the importance of workplace wellbeing, it sets the tone for everyone. Proactive leaders engage in safety initiatives, address concerns promptly, and recognise employees who contribute to a safer workplace. 
• Open communication: Clear policies and procedures are essential. Employees need to know where to turn when they witness or experience something unlawful. Regular training, clear reporting mechanisms, and open discussions about workplace safety can help build a sense of shared responsibility. 
• Collaboration across teams: Holistic safety is more effective when WHS officers, HR professionals, and leadership teams work together to create comprehensive safety plans that address both physical and psychosocial hazards. By collaborating across teams, organisations foster collective action. 

Changing the Narrative Through Action 

It’s one thing to talk about collective responsibility, but it’s another to take real action. Safe Work Month is an opportunity for organisations to review their safety policies, address gaps, and engage employees in meaningful discussions about what health and safety means in practice. Here are a few actionable steps: 

1. Compliance audit: With the substantial recent changes in workplace behaviour legislation, it is advisable to complete a compliance audit. I’ve developed a useful Risk Audit Tool that summarises the requirements of all three sets of legislation. Email me for a complimentary copy: franca@equalopportunitytraining.com.au  
2. Training workshops: Bring in experts to provide training on recognising and reporting unlawful behaviour. Encourage open dialogue during these sessions. 
3. Safety champions: Create a system that recognises employees who contribute to a safer workplace by reporting hazards, supporting colleagues, and championing initiatives. 
4. Peer support: Encourage employees to look out for one another by establishing peer support groups. These can provide a safe space for discussing concerns or navigating issues related to workplace safety and mental wellbeing. 

When we embrace the idea that health and safety is everybody’s business, the benefits extend far beyond compliance. Employees feel valued, supported, and safe. Employers can reap the benefits of lower absenteeism rates, reduced turnover, fewer workplace incidents, and higher productivity. 

During Safe Work Month, let’s foster a culture of collective responsibility to change the perception about workplace safety – from a compliance issue to a core value that defines how we work together better. 

If you would like to confidential discussion about unlawful workplace behaviour and compliance, please call Franca on 0405 134 187 or email franca@equalopportunitytraining.com.au  

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The author, Franca Sala Tenna, is a lawyer and acknowledged workplace behaviour and compliance expert. She is also the Founder & Director of EEO Specialists, and Online Compliance Training.