We've noticed a spike in employees being terminated ‘summarily’ or without notice, for alleged serious misconduct since the COVID-19 pandemic started. So, what is serious misconduct and why might there be a spike? What can you be instantly terminated for and can you challenge being sacked summarily?

With the increasing number of recent cases publicised regarding wage theft across various industries in Australia, it is important that all employees know their workplace rights and entitlements. This is particularly relevant to wage rights including any underpayment of wages.

When determining an unfair dismissal claim, the Fair Work Commission will consider if the termination was harsh, unjust or unreasonable. When assessing the application, section 387 of Act prescribes that the FWC must consider other factors.

Inappropriate social media use at work and even away from work, can have a significant negative impact on your employment and could lead to disciplinary action or dismissal. Just ask Hobart Hurricane's wicketkeeper, Emily Smith.

Sham contracting is a term used to describe the situation where a worker is engaged by a company as an independent contractor when in fact, they should be engaged as an employee.

Benjamin Legge, a foster carer under arrangements with Barnardos Australia, contends he was subjected to workplace bullying by case managers and other managers. He filed an application in the Fair Work Commission seeking orders to stop the bullying.

Annual leave entitlements apply to the majority of the workforce and in 2009, annual leave was enshrined in the National Employment Standards (NES) as one of the 10 minimum entitlements available to employees.

Under the NES, Australian workers in the private sector employed on a full-time or part-time basis, are entitled to paid ‘personal/carer’s leave’. This leave entitlement is commonly referred to as ‘sick leave’.

If someone is terminated from their employment and they believe the termination was unfair, there are a number of options available for them to challenge the legality and validity of their termination. The most common alternative is an unfair dismissal claim.

The workplace can be an environment of stress for some workers. Although they may feel their manager is bullying them, it may actually be ‘reasonable management action being carried out in a reasonable manner’. Find out the difference.