In recent years, we’ve seen a massive cultural shift. People are speaking up. They are sharing the reasons they were bullied, and in doing so, they are changing the conversation around this pervasive issue.
As an investigator who has worked in conflict resolution for over a decade, I have witnessed this trend firsthand. The silence is breaking, and for workplaces across Australia, this means issues that were once swept under the rug are now coming to light.
The Rise of Awareness
Social media platforms have handed people a megaphone. From celebrities to everyday employees, individuals are reclaiming their narratives.
Why are people speaking out now?
- Empowerment: Sharing a story is a way of saying, “This happened to me, but it doesn’t define me.”
- Prevention: By speaking out, victims hope to protect others from experiencing similar trauma.
- Community: It builds a support network, showing victims they are not alone.
Common Targets for Bullying
As more stories emerge, clear patterns become visible. People are often targeted for:
- Physical appearance (weight, height, etc.).
- Cultural, religious, or socioeconomic background.
- Sexual orientation or gender identity.
- Neurodivergence or personality traits (e.g., being introverted).
Crucial Note: These are the reasons bullies choose their targets, but they are never justifications. The fault always lies with the perpetrator, not the victim.
Workplace Bullying: A Growing Concern
While much of the public conversation focuses on schools, workplace bullying is rising. Adult employees are now more willing to file complaints about toxic behaviour that, ten years ago, might have been dismissed as “just office politics.”
This has forced organizations to wake up. Many are now implementing robust anti-bullying policies. At Jolasers, we have seen a sharp increase in requests for independent investigations in Bendigo and throughout Victoria as employers realize they can no longer ignore these complaints.
The Impact of Sharing
The trend of transparency is having a tangible positive impact:
- Reduced Stigma: The shame is shifting from the victim to the bully.
- Better Support: HR departments are being forced to develop better support systems.
- Bystander Intervention: People are learning that they have the power to stop bullying by speaking up when they see it.
The Future of Anti-Bullying Efforts
As transparency increases, we will likely see continued progress. Research into prevention is ongoing, and there is a growing focus on creating cultures of kindness—not just compliance—in Australian workplaces.
By speaking out, individuals are healing themselves and helping others. Whether you are a parent, an educator, or an employer, your actions make a difference.
External Resources:
Need Help with a Workplace Issue?
Jolasers conducts independent workplace investigations throughout Victoria and Southern NSW.
Telephone: 0418 101 164 (Stephen Oliver)
Common Questions
Why are bullying complaints increasing?
It is likely not that bullying itself is increasing, but that awareness and the willingness to report it are rising. Employees are no longer accepting toxicity as “part of the job.”
What is bystander intervention?
This is when a witness to bullying chooses to speak up or report the behaviour rather than staying silent. It is one of the most effective ways to stop harassment.
Does Jolasers work in schools?
We specialise in workplace investigations (corporate, industrial, government). However, we can investigate allegations involving staff conduct within educational institutions.