Understand

Bullying is when someone repeatedly and intentionally uses their power or status to harm, upset or intimidate someone else. The harm this causes can be physical, social, psychological or a combination of these.

In Australia, 29–40% of young people say they are being bullied frequently.

Child mental health experts recommend not using the terms ‘victim’ and ‘bully’ when talking about bullying.

There are physical, social and emotional signs that can indicate bullying. Being aware of these potential signs, both at home and in school, can help those who bully or are bullied get support as early as possible.

Bullying can happen in person or online. It can happen directly or indirectly, and can be obvious or hidden. Sometimes it can be all or a combination of these things.

Cyberbullying, or online bullying, is when someone uses technology to bully a person or group with the intent to hurt them socially, psychologically or even physically.

Any online behaviour intended to threaten, hurt or humiliate can be cyberbullying.

School bullying is a complex social issue that involves multiple participants and observers. As well as students who bully others and students who are bullied, it also involves bystanders, teachers, school staff, parents and carers, and the wider community.

School bullying has far-reaching impacts for individuals, schools, school communities and society more broadly.

Research over the past ten years suggests that certain characteristics may increase the risk of being bullied. In general, anything that sets a student apart from their peer group makes them more vulnerable to bullying.

These animated videos unpack and explain the national definition of bullying for Australian schools.

For Primary school: What is bullying and why do people do it?

For Secondary school: What is bullying and why do people do it?