Everyone involved in sailing can expect to be protected from unacceptable behaviours. The Member Protection Policy outlines what everyone’s rights are, and their responsibilities.

We all often hear how people feel bullied or harassed, and both are unacceptable behaviours. But what exactly are they?

Both are defined terms and whilst oft-used, it is important that we understand what they are and what they are not.

• Bullying means a person or group of people repeatedly and intentionally using words or actions, or the inappropriate use of power, against someone or a group of people to cause distress and risk to their wellbeing.

Some of the key elements of the definition of bullying are that the behaviour is repeated and intentional, or that the use of power is inappropriate, and that it is to cause distress. Once off and accidental behaviour, or entirely valid application of authority might not be bullying and we need to make this important distinction when looking at behaviour and addressing cases of bullying. 

• Harassment means any type of behaviour towards a person that they do not want and that is offensive, abusive, belittling or threatening and is reasonably likely to cause harm to the person who is the subject of the harassment.

In this definition it is quite clear that aggressive pressure or intimidation is out of line. A much simpler behaviour to identify in anyone’s language or background. If you’re treating people with care, kindness or respect, then this will never be a problem. Nonetheless, a key element here is that it must be reasonably likely to cause harm. This last aspect relies on some judgement of what is the reasonable likely outcome of the behaviour.

The Member Protection Policy is not limited to addressing harassment or bullying. Other unacceptable behaviours include abuse, sexual misconduct, unlawful discrimination, victimisation, and vilification. The Complaints, Disputes and Discipline Policy applies to any alleged unacceptable behaviour under the Member Protection Policy.

Ultimately the message is to do the right thing and treat others with respect and dignity. Do that, and this policy might even become obsolete.

The National Integrity Framework and its policies are here.
An online induction about the National Integrity Framework and its policies can be done here.

For further information please contact glen.stanaway@sailing.org.au.