Budget 2013: Fair work receives funding to tackle workplace bullying

The Fair Work Commission has been given $21.4 million over the next four years to fund legal remedies for victims of workplace bullying.

A recent report by the Productivity Commission has highlighted the significant impact of bullying in the workplace, which could cost an estimated $36 billion in productivity each year.

The Fair Work Commission is set to begin hearing bullying complaints from 1 July 2013- although the accompanying Fair Work Amendment legislation is yet to pass through Parliament.

Following the proposed legislation, the Fair Work Commission will have the power to intervene in bullying cases where the complaint could not be resolved between the parties involved.

Small businesses will be updated by business groups in regards to the bullying requirements in the lead up to 1 July.