Course Overview

This comprehensive 8-module online course equips employees and teams with practical skills to recognise, respond to, and prevent workplace harassment, discrimination, and inappropriate behaviours. Participants develop confidence to intervene safely whilst protecting their own wellbeing and that of colleagues.

Module 1: Introduction to Being an Active Bystander. Understand the critical difference between passive observation and active intervention. Learn the legal requirements under Australian workplace legislation, including the positive duty under the Sex Discrimination Act 1984, and discover why active bystanders are essential for creating respectful, safe workplace cultures.

Module 2: Recognising Harmful Situations and Behaviours. Develop skills to identify unacceptable workplace behaviours, from obvious harassment to subtle passive-aggressive conduct. Learn to read nonverbal cues and body language that signal someone may need assistance, and understand the serious consequences of remaining a passive bystander.

Module 3: Barriers to Bystander Intervention.  Explore common obstacles that prevent intervention, including cultural barriers, fear of retaliation, lack of training, and legal concerns. Gain practical strategies to overcome personal hesitations and social pressures that may inhibit your ability to act when situations require intervention.

Module 4: Safe Intervention as an Active Bystander. Master the four key intervention strategies: Direct action, Distraction, Delegation, and Delayed response. Learn to assess situational risks, understand organisational protocols, and prioritise personal safety whilst effectively addressing inappropriate behaviours in the workplace.

Module 5: Developing Skills for Safe and Successful Interventions Build essential capabilities including de-escalation techniques, effective communication strategies, and conflict resolution skills. Develop emotional intelligence, empathy, and assertiveness to confidently navigate challenging situations and manage aggressive behaviours professionally.

Module 6: Supporting a Culture of Active Bystandership Learn how to foster an organisational environment that encourages positive intervention. Understand the importance of building supportive communities, addressing power dynamics, and creating systems where employees feel empowered to speak up and take action.

Module 7: Seeking Support Post-Intervention Discover how to manage the emotional impact of intervention on yourself and others. Learn to provide ongoing support to affected colleagues, access professional resources, and maintain your own wellbeing after taking action in challenging workplace situations.

Module 8: Key Takeaways and Course Summary Consolidate your learning and develop a personal action plan for implementing active bystander strategies in your workplace. Review essential intervention techniques and commitment strategies to maintain skills and confidence over time.

Learning Outcomes

Professional Practice

Organisational Navigation

• Navigate organisational protocols, reporting procedures, and hierarchical structures when addressing workplace incidents
• Understand confidentiality requirements and appropriate channels for reporting concerns
• Collaborate effectively with management, HR, and support services to ensure proper incident handling

Cultural Development

• Contribute to building a workplace culture that encourages active bystandership and mutual support
• Address power dynamics and barriers that may prevent effective intervention
• Model respectful behaviour and encourage open communication about workplace concerns

Personal and Professional Support

• Implement self-care strategies to maintain personal wellbeing when intervening in challenging situations
• Provide appropriate support to colleagues who have experienced workplace harassment or discrimination
• Access and utilise available resources, including counselling services, employee assistance programmes, and professional support networks

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

Barrier Analysis and Resolution

• Identify personal, cultural, and organisational barriers to effective bystander intervention
• Develop strategies to overcome hesitation, fear of retaliation, and other impediments to taking action
• Evaluate the effectiveness of intervention attempts and adjust approaches based on outcomes

Ethical Decision Making

• Make informed decisions about when and how to intervene in workplace situations involving inappropriate behaviour
• Balance competing considerations including personal safety, colleague wellbeing, and organisational requirements
• Demonstrate moral courage and ethical responsibility in challenging workplace situations

Ongoing Development

Continuous Improvement

• Reflect critically on intervention experiences to identify learning opportunities and areas for skill development
• Seek ongoing training and professional development to enhance active bystander capabilities
• Contribute to organisational learning by sharing experiences and providing feedback on policies and procedures

Community Building

• Encourage and support colleagues in developing active bystander skills and confidence
• Participate in creating and maintaining workplace environments that prioritise safety, respect, and inclusion
• Advocate for systemic changes that prevent inappropriate workplace behaviours and support positive organisational culture

FAQ’s

Question: How long does the course take?

Answer: The course takes approximately 60 minutes to complete.

Question: Is there a test at the end?

Answer: Yes, there is a short quiz at the end of the course to test your knowledge.

Question: Do I get a certificate?

Answer: Yes, you will receive a certificate of completion upon successful completion of the course.

Question: Is the course mobile friendly?

Answer: Yes, the course is fully mobile friendly and can be completed on any device.

Question: Can I purchase multiple licenses for my team?

Answer: Yes, we offer discounts for bulk purchases. Please contact us for a quote.