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Abuse Information and Support
Abuse and harmful behaviour can take many forms and may not always be easy to recognise.
This page provides general information to help you understand abuse and harmful behaviour that may occur within organisations and institutions, recognise concerning behaviour, consider practical steps, and find information about your rights and support options.
Support through Kooyoora
If you work, volunteer or participate in an organisation that uses Kooyoora’s services, you can contact Kooyoora directly. Our team can listen to your concerns, provide information and help you understand the options available to you.
If you are an organisational leader dealing with harmful behaviour, Kooyoora can provide advice and services to help you manage the matter and determine appropriate next steps. For more information, explore Kooyoora’s Safeguarding Services.
What can I do if I experience abuse or harmful behaviour?
If you experience abuse or harmful behaviour within an organisation or institution, you may be unsure what to do, who to speak with or where to seek support. The Abuse and Harmful Behaviour Practical Guide to Seeking Support is designed for employees, students, volunteers, parishioners and members of community or sporting groups. It provides practical information to help you consider your options, raise a concern and find appropriate support, including if you feel uncertain about reporting what happened.
Recognising abuse and harmful behaviour
Abuse and harmful behaviour can take different forms and may occur in a range of organisational or institutional settings. Some behaviour may be clearly concerning, while other behaviour can be more difficult to recognise or may develop over time.
Learning about different types of abuse and harm can help you recognise concerning behaviour and understand when further information or support may be needed.
Understanding your rights
People have the right to be treated with dignity, fairness and respect within organisations and institutions. Your rights and the options available to you may depend on the type of behaviour, where it occurred and the organisation or institution involved.
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Rights at Work
People working in Australia have workplace rights and protections. These may include protection from unlawful discrimination, adverse action, coercion, undue influence and sexual harassment connected to work.
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Human Rights Protections
Human rights and freedoms are recognised and protected in Australia through federal, state and territory laws, the Australian Constitution and common law.
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Legal Rights and Protections
Learn about human rights in Australia, why they matter in everyday life and how they are protected.
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Rights when Receiving Health Care
People have the right to receive clear information about their health care, including the risks and benefits of proposed tests and treatments. They also have the right to receive safe, high-quality care.
