Click here for further information and the downloadable resources:

https://criticalfewactionspodcast.com.au/GeorgieChapman2Information

In this episode, I sit down with Georgie Chapman, HR Legal Advisor and Partner at HR Legal, to uncover why CEOs of mid-sized businesses (under $100M turnover) can’t afford to ignore workplace bullying and stress. With decades of experience advising companies on employment law, Georgie brings a refreshing perspective that balances legal obligations and pragmatism with genuine empathy for your team. If you’ve been searching for practical guidance on navigating the complexities of bullying complaints or preventing crippling workplace stress, this conversation is your roadmap.

What you’ll learn

• Proactive Bullying Prevention: The surprising financial and cultural costs of bullying—and simple steps to stop toxic behaviour in its tracks.
• Legal & Managerial Guidance: How to separate “reasonable management action” from bullying, and why clear documentation matters so much.
• Stress Intervention Strategies: Early warning signs of excessive stress and how leaders can support employees before it derails productivity.
• Cultivating a Healthier Culture: How to create open channels for complaints, feedback, and mental health support—plus the direct ROI of getting it right.

Highlights

00:00 Introduction to Bullying and Stress

01:41 Defining Bullying in the Workplace

03:33 Examples of Unreasonable Behavior

07:58 Addressing Bullying Complaints

12:37 Handling Bullying Informally and Formally

31:10 Role of WorkSafe in Bullying Cases

32:45 Avoiding Third-Party Interventions

33:47 Handling Bullying with Contractors

35:48 Union and Non-Union Worker Dynamics

38:33 Vaccination and Workplace Bullying

40:26 Fair Work Commission and Bullying Orders

42:30 Resources for Dealing with Bullying

44:55 Addressing Workplace Stress

48:16 Supporting Employees with Stress

57:00 Performance Management and Stress

01:03:42 The #CriticalFewActions™ to improve your business

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Download the Episode Summary & Georgie’s Contact Details: https://www.criticalfewactions.com.au/podcast/Georgie-Chapman-HRLegal-Bullying

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Oh, and listening to Georgie’s experiences reminded me of how critical it is to look beneath the surface of day-to-day operations. A single incident of unchecked bullying or unaddressed stress can quickly escalate into a full-blown crisis—yet it’s entirely preventable with the right policies, empathy, and culture in place. Thanks for tuning in, and I can’t wait to hear your thoughts on these vital, often overlooked topics.