bullying and harassment
information for members
creating respectful club environments
Surf lifesaving clubs rely on teamwork, trust and respect. Members often work closely together during patrols, training sessions, competitions and club activities, which makes positive relationships especially important.
Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected in their club environment. Bullying or harassment can undermine confidence, wellbeing and the sense of community that clubs depend on.
While disagreements or frustrations may occasionally occur, behaviour that repeatedly targets, excludes or intimidates someone is not part of a healthy club culture.
Recognising and addressing concerns early helps protect both individuals and the wider club environment.
What bullying or harassment can look like
Bullying or harassment may appear in different ways. It is not always loud or obvious, and sometimes develops gradually over time.
Examples may include:
- Repeated criticism or humiliation
A member is regularly criticised, mocked or embarrassed in front of others. - Exclusion from activities or conversations
Someone is intentionally left out of patrol tasks, meetings, social events or team discussions. - Offensive jokes or comments
Remarks that target a person’s background, identity, experience or ability. - Intimidation or aggressive behaviour
Raised voices, threatening tone or behaviour used to pressure or control someone. - Repeated negative treatment toward a member
Ongoing behaviour that singles someone out or makes them feel unwelcome within the team.
These behaviours can affect confidence, wellbeing and a person’s willingness to stay involved in club activities.
signs behaviour is becoming harmful
Sometimes the impact of bullying or harassment becomes visible through changes in behaviour or participation.
- Members avoiding certain people or situations
Someone may begin skipping patrols, training sessions or club activities. - Visible discomfort or distress during interactions
A member appears anxious, withdrawn or upset around certain individuals. - Increased tension within a patrol or team
Behaviour begins affecting the wider group environment. - Concerns being raised by other members
Teammates notice behaviour and feel uncomfortable or concerned. - A member withdrawing from participation
Reduced communication, involvement or willingness to contribute.
Recognising these signs early allows clubs to respond before the situation becomes more serious.
maintaining a zero bullying culture
set clear expectations for behaviour
Clubs benefit when members understand what respectful behaviour looks like during patrols, training, meetings and social activities. Clear standards help create a shared understanding of how people should treat each other.
address concerns early and calmly
If behaviour is making someone uncomfortable, addressing it early can often prevent escalation. Early conversations, clarification or guidance may help resolve misunderstandings before patterns develop.
utilise support pathways
Some issues require additional support. Clubs should ensure members know who they can speak with if they experience or witness bullying or harassment.
Having clear processes helps ensure concerns are handled appropriately and fairly.
Factsheets
FACT SHEET 1 (MEMBERS) - Bullying & Harassment: Signs, risks & what to do
FACT SHEET 2 (CLUBS & LEADERS) - Preventing bullying and harassment in clubs
FACT SHEET 3 (PATROL & OPERATIONS LEADERS) - How bullying can affect operations
FACT SHEET 4 (PEERS/TEAMMATES) - Supporting a teammate who may be experiencing some sort of bullying
Need more help or support?
- If it’s urgent or someone is at risk: call emergency services immediately 000.
- If you need more support: contact your GP or a mental health professional, and contact us at [email protected].
- In-club: reach out to a trusted leader (Patrol Captain, Club Captain/Director, President).