Canberrans may be protected by tough new workplace bullying laws after the ACT Greens' proposals received in-principle support from the territory's other political parties.
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The cross-bench party's Bill requires the ACT's Work Health and Safety Authority, WorkSafe, to appoint at least three inspectors who have experience in dealing with bullying in the workplace and the creation of an expert bullying advisory committee.
The Productivity Commission found the cost of bullying and harassment was more than $14billion a year.
This did not include hidden costs, such as hiring and training employees to replace people who left because of workplace stress.
But Greens MLA Amanda Bresnan said the cost of bullying could not be counted.
''These changes will enhance the ACT's ability to respond to bullying issues, to take preventative action against bullying, and to implement best practice and innovative laws and procedures,'' Ms Bresnan said.
Last month The Canberra Times reported the ACT's public servants had been attacked, abused or threatened by members of the public at a rate of more than two a day over the past 20 months.
A service-wide survey of bullying, harassment and occupational violence in the ACT Public Service showed government workers had reported more than 1600 adverse incidents since January 1 last year.
Chief Minister Katy Gallagher said any action that reduced bullying in the workplace would be supported by Labor.
''I think there is no doubt that bullying in the workplace is something that the government and parliament need to continue to improve, in terms of our management,'' Ms Gallagher said. ''It's something that has been raised this year ... the general principle is good and it's pretty difficult to argue against the management of bullying in any workplace so we have an open mind about improving the systems.''
But WorkSafe Commissioner Mark McCabe said he did not want to comment on the merit of the Greens' proposal.
''But I agree that bullying is a very important issue, it needs close attention and I believe it's getting close attention from Worksafe,'' Mr McCabe said.
The proposed changes by the Greens come as occupational health and safety laws are due to align across the nation from January 1.
Mr McCabe believes it is only a matter of time before the territory sees its first criminal prosecution for workplace harassment.
''I'm convinced it will, the only thing that inhibits this is the willingness of the witness to go on the record,'' he said.
He said proving allegations was difficult because victims or witnesses were often scared to speak out.
From next year, workers who recklessly fail to prevent behaviour that causes serious harm to another can be fined $300,000.
''The penalties are very strong so it will just be about getting a case where people are willing to testify,'' Mr McCabe said.