Protecting Our Councils: Addressing Bullying and Harassment with Robust Compliance Training
The recent Victorian Councillor Census has revealed a deeply concerning trend: a significant number of women councillors have experienced bullying and harassment from their colleagues.
The findings, highlighted in an article by Government News, paint a stark picture of hostile working environments within local government, with over 60% of female councillors reporting threatening or intimidating behaviour. This not only adversely impacts the individuals involved but also undermines the effective functioning of councils.
The Need for Stronger Protection Measures
The census, conducted by the Victorian Local Governance Association (VLGA), exposes a critical gap in the support and protection offered to our elected officials.
Worryingly, nearly 80% of women councillors believe that current processes for addressing inappropriate behaviour are ineffective. This lack of confidence in existing systems calls for urgent action to ensure safer council environments.
The Mental Health Impact of Workplace Harassment
The impact of bullying and harassment extends beyond individual councillors. The census also indicates that one in five councillors reported their mental health had “suffered substantially” due to their experiences, with some choosing not to re-contest their positions.
This loss of experienced and dedicated individuals weakens our local government and its ability to serve the community effectively.
The Role of Compliance Training in Preventing Workplace Harassment
Councils, like any workplace, must prioritise a safe and respectful environment. This is where robust Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) training becomes essential. At GRC Solutions, we offer comprehensive compliance training programs designed to address these issues.
Our Sexual Harassment and Bullying eLearning modules provide crucial education on identifying and preventing inappropriate behaviour. These modules equip councillors and staff with the knowledge and tools needed to foster a respectful and inclusive workplace. Furthermore, our Psychosocial Hazards training addresses the broader impact of workplace stress and provides strategies for managing and mitigating these risks.
Proactive Steps for Safer Councils
By implementing structured anti-bullying training programs, councils can proactively address the root causes of workplace harassment.
This not only protects individuals but also strengthens the organisation as a whole. A culture of respect and ethical behaviour is fundamental to good governance and ensures that councils can effectively serve their communities.
Legislative Compliance and Best Practices
Many councils are required to comply with Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws and regulations related to workplace bullying and harassment.
Our training ensures that organisations meet legal obligations and foster a workplace free from discrimination and misconduct, aligning with WorkSafe Australia guidelines and the Australian Human Rights Commission’s recommendations.
Taking Action: Invest in Training for a Better Future
The VLGA’s call for action resonates deeply with our commitment to supporting ethical and effective local government. It is imperative that we move beyond simply acknowledging the problem and take concrete steps to create lasting change.
We understand the complexities of local government and the importance of tailored council compliance training solutions. Our eLearning courses are designed to be accessible and engaging, ensuring that all councillors and staff can benefit from this vital education.
Build a Culture of Integrity and Respect
We urge all councils across Australia and New Zealand to prioritise the well-being of their councillors and staff. By investing in comprehensive compliance training, you can build a strong foundation for ethical behaviour and create a safe and respectful workplace.
Contact Us
GRC Solutions is dedicated to helping local councils build safer, more inclusive workplaces.
Contact us today to learn more about our compliance training solutions and how they can support your council’s governance and culture.