Category: Industrial & Employment Law
Blindsiding a worker into a redundancy meeting is not “reasonable management action”
A worker’s initial claim for workers compensation was denied by WorkCover Queensland due to the employer’s actions being considered “reasonable management action”. The worker ultimately appealed to the QIRC who overturned the prior decision and the workers’ compensation claim was ultimately accepted.
Work from home request refused by employer - decision upheld by QIRC
A Queensland tribunal has affirmed the decision of a public hospital to refuse an ongoing ‘work from home’ arrangement for its HR staff, which was introduced during the height of the coronavirus pandemic.
Sexual harassment in the workplace: Australia’s first stop sexual harassment case
In this case, where a worker lodged a “Stop Sexual Harassment” application, the application was dismissed due to “no risk of future sexual harassment”.
Fighting at work can lead to disciplinary action, including termination
A worker involved in a physical altercation in the workplace can face serious disciplinary consequences, including the immediate termination of their employment.
Successful appeal sees Queensland Police Service required to pay $169,119.29 in costs
A big win upholds statutory right of entry for union officials to lawfully enter work premises where they suspect breaches of work health safety laws.
Workplace consultation crucial when mandating vaccination
A decision of the Full Bench of the Fair Work Commission determines coal mine’s vaccine mandate not lawful/reasonable simply due to lack of consultation.
Your employer instructs you to do something illegal. What are your rights as an employee?
It is imperative you understand your rights and obligations in relation to reasonable and lawful directions from your employer. We explore your rights if a direction requires you to break the law.
Demotion involving reduction in pay and no change in role constitutes dismissal
A recent case before the Fair Work Commission (FWC) has served to highlight the provisions around demotions and the circumstances in which they can constitute a dismissal.
Can my redundancy payment be reduced by my employer?
Employers are increasingly attempting to utilise a provision of the Fair Work Act to reduce an employee’s entitlement to their redundancy pay.
Unions are good for workers and good for society
We think it is integral that employment law victories are continually recognised and celebrated so that society continues to appreciate the key role unions have played in Australia’s history.
Returning to work after parental leave – your rights
No matter how much you love your job, going to back to work after parental leave can be a scary prospect. So, what are your rights when returning from leave?
Case review - when does unpaid work constitute employment?
A recent decision of the Fair Work Commission has again considered whether unpaid work constitutes employment.