​Conflict is a common and inevitable part of working life – however when conflict crosses the line and escalates into behaviours that can be considered unlawful it can result in costly stress claims for local governments. 

Here are ten reasons why your local government should make workplace behaviours training a priority:

1. All employees should be able to recognise workplace bullying, harassment and sexual harassment – whether the behaviour is happening in person, or via technology. They should understand in clear terms where to draw the line and what behaviours are inappropriate, particularly in relation to 'grey' areas such as social media and work related events.
2. A culture of bullying and inappropriate behaviours can spread throughout organisations and become an issue if employees and managers do not recognise signs early and address it in a timely manner.
   
3. Most people think that bullying can only happen between two employees at a similar level, or by a manager to an employee. However, training can help employees recognise that upward bullying can also happen to a CEO or senior manager. People in these senior roles can experience unique forms of psychosocial harm.
4. Training can help people recognise the difference between bullying and reasonable management requests. Sometimes, firm directions given by a manager can be confused with bullying.
5. It is important for workplaces to have this training so they can establish a legal defence if a worker makes a bullying or harassment claim. 
6. During training workers can ask questions about their own experiences to understand if they have experienced bullying, harassment or sexual harassment. It can teach them how to shut down incidents of inappropriate behaviours early using assertiveness and by saying no.
7. Training promotes an open door policy and develops trust that the local government recognises the dangers of these behaviours in the workplace. 
8. It helps those at risk feel comfortable with bringing up issues with their manager or HR – those most at risk include casual workers, young workers, new employees, injured workers and people who are part of a minority group.
9. Witnesses to inappropriate behaviours are empowered to report these incidents. Training also clearly establishes the process involved in reporting issues.

Training promotes respectful workplace relationships and shows the local government has a healthy work culture.

LGIS provides Workplace Behaviours training to our Local Government members. For more information please contact Workcare Services manager Renee Wockner on 0427 617 646 or renee.wockner@lgiswa.com.au.