An unacceptable workplace behaviours policy helps organisations create a fair, safe and respectful work environment. 

It does this by:

• defining unacceptable workplace behaviours — such as bullying, discrimination, harassment and victimisation
• instructing workers not to engage in unacceptable behaviours
• outlining procedures for reporting unacceptable behaviours, and
• setting out consequences for violations of the policy.

Learn more about unacceptable workplace behaviours.

An unacceptable workplace behaviours policy protects workers and educates them on their responsibilities as well as their rights.

It also helps you, as a business or organisation: 

• prevent, manage, and address unacceptable workplace behaviour
• fulfil your legal obligations. 

Unacceptable workplace behaviours like discrimination, harassment and bullying are work health and safety hazards that can create a risk to a worker's psychological and physical health. Workers do not have to be the target of unacceptable behaviour to be affected by it.  

Workplace laws, including work health and safety (WHS) laws, require organisations to prevent unacceptable workplace behaviours like unlawful discrimination, harassment and bullying. A policy is an important tool for helping you meet your legal obligations. 

Learn more about preventing unacceptable workplace behaviours.

You can require your workers to read and understand, sign and return your unacceptable workplace behaviours policy: 

• when they start working for or in your organisation
• each time you review it. 

It can also form part of a contract or agreement.

An unacceptable workplace behaviours policy may be supported by other policies in your workplace, such as a grievance policy or a code of conduct.  

Learn more about workplace policies including:

• what makes a good workplace policy
• how to implement a policy at your workplace
• links to other templates. 

How to use this template

This is a guided template for organisations and businesses. You will need to consider what is right and practical for your workplace and the resources available to it.

Download the template, follow the prompts, adapt it to your organisation, delete the guidance notes and add your branding. 

Be sure to communicate it to any workers that it applies to. Make sure they can access it, and that they know who to ask if they have questions. 

But remember: This template is general and does not include legal obligations that are specific to any scenario. For example, you may need to seek legal advice if you are a large organisation, or want to know the specific legal obligations in your state or territory.

Download the template