WHS MyHR reporting: What? When? Why? How?
Queensland Teachers' Journal, Vol 130 No 4, 20 June 2025, page no 13.
Spitting. Threats. Online abuse. These aren’t isolated incidents — they’re part of the daily experience for too many educators. But let’s be absolutely clear: occupational violence is NOT part of the job.
As part of the QTU’s broader WHS campaign — and the ongoing work of QTU officers — we’re developing resources to support you in understanding and exercising your workplace health and safety rights. These resources also remind employers of their legal and moral obligations to provide a safe working environment.
While we often assume everyone understands their WHS responsibilities, many employers fail to explain why reporting hazards and incidents is important. This leaves workers unclear about when and how to report — and uncertain about what happens next.
To support members, we’ve created a new information sheet explaining the “What? When? Why? How?” of reporting occupational violence here or you can use the QR code below. It’s part of a growing suite of WHS materials we’re developing to empower you to take action.
One of our key aims is to challenge the myth that occupational violence and aggression are just “part of the job” in education. That belief is harmful, dangerous, and entirely unacceptable.
Included in the resource is the Department of Education’s definition of occupational violence and aggression: “Occupational violence and aggression is any action, incident or behaviour in which a person is threatened, harmed or injured by another person during, or as a direct result of their work. This includes incidents of online abuse and cyberbullying.”
You’ll also find a diagram outlining the hierarchy of control measures from the How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice. It’s a key framework for understanding how risks should be addressed — and a vital reference for teachers and school leaders.
This resource breaks down:
- what should be reported (including near misses)
- when to report (every time an incident or threat occurs)
- why it matters (for legal protection, safety, and system-wide change)
- how to report using the MyHR WHS portal.
These materials are just the beginning. We’re committed to ensuring every QTU member understands their WHS rights — and knows how to use them.
Most importantly, we want every educator to return home each day to their family, friends, and loved ones in the same state they left.
If you need support or advice, contact the QTU assist desk QTAD here or call 1300 11 7823 (1300 11 QTAD).
Your safety matters. Your voice matters. Report. Every time.