News: Blog
Sacking of micromanaging and bullying manager upheld: why anti-bullying training is needed
According to John Boardman, Director Workplace Relations at iHR Australia, bullying has taken a devastating toll on Australian business costing more than $10 billion dollars a year. Boardman notes that…
Brisbane business cops $400,000 fine for staffing breach: Is your company at risk?
A record penalty recently handed to a Brisbane business owner comes as a timely reminder for employers to ensure all employment contracts fully abide by Australian workplace law. Employers need…
Workplace mediation could have saved litigation costs: FWC rules worker unfairly sacked for refusing company-wide cut
When would a workplace situation benefit from a workplace mediation? According to Karen Streckfuss, a Senior Workplace Relations Advisor at iHR Australia, the best time to apply a mediation at…
Sacking of inappropriate group emailer lawful after legitimate workplace investigation, says Fair Work Commission
The summary dismissal of an inappropriate group emailer and serial complainant by a regional water board has been ruled lawful by the Fair Work Commission. The employee had lodged complaints…
Hurt feelings and workplace bullying are not the same according to Fair Work Commission
A common concern for managers is what constitutes workplace bullying. A recent case before the Fair Work Commission highlights the importance of managers understanding the definition of bullying and specifically the…
Over-qualified, too senior or over-experienced? Commissioned report reveals systemic age discrimination
A news article last week highlighted a national inquiry led by the Age and Disability Discrimination Commissioner Susan Ryan which concluded that ongoing, systemic age and disability workforce discrimination is…
Extended sick leave rejected for spider bite – know your sick leave obligations as an employer
Sick leave benefits are a common issue causing confusion for employers. Most employers want to support employees during periods of ill health, while minimising the impact on the business. It…
Employee compensated after being terminated for visitor bringing rifle to work: the importance of thorough workplace investigations
Informal responses are not appropriate when an employer or an employee is faced with allegations of serious misconduct in the workplace. Initiating an independent workplace investigation ensures that any decision…
4 key ingredients for an effective workplace bullying policy
As with many workplace issues, the first element of a prevention strategy for workplace bullying is to have a clear, up to date and well communicated policy in place. The…
Employer taken to court by car salesperson who alleges he was racially abused by co-workers
To create a winning culture employers need have workplace health and safety top of mind. Being proactive about preventing workplace bullying is an important part of creating safe workplace. Workplace…
Supermarket chain accused of short changing part-time employee when negotiating new enterprise agreement
A recent case before a full bench of the Federal Court has highlighted the importance of employers seeking expert advice to determine that their enterprise agreements satisfy the requirements provided…
Performance management conduct: the mistaken workplace bully – how you can keep the lines clear
For the first time, new workplace bullying laws enforced under the Fair Work Act 2009 since 1 January 2014 entitles workers to apply to Fair Work Commission for alleged workplace…
