When Success Becomes a Threat – Tall Poppy Syndrome in the Workplace
- Missy Kay
- Aug 19
- 2 min read
Australia has a toxic habit of cutting down high achievers, especially women. Tall Poppy Syndrome is not just an annoyance. It is a deeply ingrained cultural issue that holds women back from reaching their full potential.
I experienced this firsthand.
My Experience at Sydney Water
When I joined Sydney Water, I was determined to make an impact. I worked long hours, helped build new workflows and systems, and was even chosen by a senior leader to be the PR spokesperson for my department. It felt like I was finally being recognised for my hard work and innovation.
But not everyone saw it that way.
My direct manager became threatened by my success. Instead of supporting me, he tried to tear me down. One day, in front of colleagues, he exploded at me, screaming:
“You think you fing run this shop, but I can tell you now, you don’t run s**!”**
The room went silent. A few people heard him. But no one stood up for me. The fear of retaliation kept them quiet.
Later, when I confided in a colleague about how deeply this affected me, I made a passing remark: “Maybe he doesn’t recognise his daughters in me, and that’s why he felt comfortable yelling at me like that.”
HR twisted my words and accused me of calling him a racist. I was given a formal warning.
From that point on, I was blacklisted. My opportunities dried up. And when the COVID lockdowns hit, I was out of a job.
Why Tall Poppy Syndrome Thrives
Insecure Leadership – Managers who feel threatened by strong, competent women.
Cultural Bias – Australia’s ingrained discomfort with ambition, especially in women.
Lack of Support Networks – Few safe spaces for women to grow without facing backlash.
How to Rise Above Tall Poppy Syndrome
Own Your Success Without Apology Don’t shrink yourself to make others comfortable. If you’ve earned your success, own it.
Seek Support from Like-Minded Leaders Find managers, mentors, or coaches who celebrate ambition rather than resent it.
Know That Their Insecurity Isn’t Your Problem When people try to tear you down, it’s a reflection of their own fears and limitations—not yours.
Resources for Women Facing Career Suppression
If you are struggling with workplace bias or suppression, these resources can help:
Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) – Advocacy for women in leadership: www.wgea.gov.au
Australian HR Institute – Workplace fairness & discrimination support: www.ahri.com.au
ReachOut Australia – Mental health & resilience resources: www.reachout.com.au
Your Ambition Is Not the Problem
Tall Poppy Syndrome is designed to make women doubt themselves. But I am here to tell you, your success is not the issue. If this resonates with you, and you need support in owning your power, stepping into leadership, and navigating workplace bias, Inspired Consulting is here to help.
Let’s create a world where women rise, together.
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