The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has criticised the local leadership at former Toll subsidiary Team Global Express for not adequately addressing bullying and harassment faced by one of its workers, despite the perpetrator's resignation and the company's efforts to prevent further incidents.
The worker reported incidents of bullying, including physical and verbal abuse, which led to a decline in their mental health. Although the company took disciplinary actions and implemented separation measures, the worker continued to feel unsafe.
The company verified allegations of physical and verbal abuse early last year, issuing written and verbal warnings to the respondents and segregating them to opposite sides of the distribution centre to minimise interaction.
After the bullying resumed, the complainant lodged an anti-bullying application (s789FC) with the Commission. Upon the worker's return from nearly a year's personal leave due to declining mental health, Team Global investigated and confirmed the complainant had again faced bullying and harassment.
Although the FWC couldn't issue anti-bullying orders due to the perpetrator's resignation, it highlighted the local leadership's failure to promptly address the issue. Despite improvements, the Commission urged Team Global Express to send a clear message against workplace bullying and ensure the safety of all workers.
