Tackling Harmful Behaviour At Work: What The New WHS Laws Mean For Farms
When we talk about safety on farms or in the shearing shed, most people think of machinery, chemicals or quad bikes. But under updated WHS laws being introduced across Australia from 1 September 2025, safety isn’t just about physical risks anymore.
These changes require all workplaces—including farms—to actively manage psychosocial hazards, such as bullying, harassment, aggression and exclusion.
Note: While most states and territories begin enforcement from 1 September, Victoria will implement these changes from 1 December 2025.
If you employ staff, engage contractors or have anyone working under your direction, it’s your responsibility to create a safe and respectful workplace. Here’s how to start.
1. Understand what harmful behaviour includes
Safe Work Australia defines “harmful behaviour” as a recognised psychosocial hazard. That includes:
Bullying
Sexual harassment
Verbal abuse or threats
Aggression or intimidation
Discrimination
Isolation or exclusion
These behaviours don’t just affect individual wellbeing—they damage team culture, increase turnover and impact productivity and mental health.
Access the full guide on managing Psychosocial Hazards here
2. Start the conversation with your team
You don’t need to deliver a formal training session—but you do need to talk about it. Use a Toolbox Talk or team meeting to:
Share simple definitions of what’s considered harmful behaviour
Discuss what this might look like on your farm
Reaffirm your commitment to a respectful, safe workplace
Tip: Use relatable examples or past incidents (without naming names) to encourage open discussion. Real stories help people connect the dots.
3. Keep a record of the conversation
Under WHS law, it’s not enough to say “we talked about it.” You need to be able to show it.
Record the date of the discussion
Note the key topics or behaviours discussed
Ask participants to sign an attendance sheet
Upload this to your safety system or training register
If you’re not sure how to set this up, Ingham & Co can help with a simple, tailored approach.
4. Make it part of your routine
This shouldn’t be a one-off chat. Make respect and safety part of your regular team check-ins—especially if you manage a mobile, seasonal or high-pressure workforce.
The more normal these discussions become, the easier it is to spot problems early and take action before someone gets hurt—mentally or physically.
Final thought
Talking about harmful behaviour isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s the right thing to do. And like most important safety conversations, it starts with a simple question:
“How are we doing as a team?”
If you’d like support to roll this out on your farm, Ingham & Co is here to help. We work with farmers across Australia to make WHS practical, proactive and part of everyday business.
Want to understand your obligations around this and other WHS legislation?
Book a free Farm Safety Review and get tailored, on-farm advice to help protect your people, business and future.
Ingham & Co – Making farm safety simpler, smarter and fit for the future.
