Who Can Claim Unfair Dismissal?

Unfair dismissal claims are only available to employees who meet specific criteria under the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth). If you believe you have been unfairly dismissed, it is important to understand whether you are eligible to lodge a claim.

To apply for an unfair dismissal remedy, one or more of following conditions must be met:

Minimum Employment Period

You must have worked for the employer for the required minimum employment period. This varies depending on the size of the business:

1. For small businesses (with 15 or fewer employees), the minimum employment period is 12 months. This includes casual employees who have worked regularly.

2. For larger businesses, the minimum employment period is 6 months.

Covered by a Modern Award or Enterprise Agreement

Your employment is covered by a modern award or enterprise agreement. This ensures that your terms and conditions of employment are regulated under Australian workplace law.

Below the High-Income Threshold

Your annual remuneration must be less than the “high-income threshold.” As of 1 July 2024, the Fair Work Commission set this threshold at $175,500. Employees earning above this amount are generally not eligible to lodge an unfair dismissal claim unless they are covered by a modern award or enterprise agreement.

Why You Should Seek Legal Advice

Determining whether you meet the eligibility criteria for an unfair dismissal claim can be complex. Bentham Sydney Employment Lawyers is here to help you navigate the process. Our team of expert solicitors can assess your situation, ensure you meet the legal requirements, and guide you through lodging your claim with the Fair Work Commission.

If you believe you have been unfairly dismissed, contact Bentham Sydney Employment Lawyers today for expert advice and assistance in protecting your workplace rights.

What Can You Expect From Bentham Sydney Employment Lawyers?

We pride ourselves on providing expert legal advice, having defended employee rights for over two decades. Our approach involves:

1. Conducting detailed interviews to gather facts;

2. Preparing robust written submissions to the Fair Work Commission; and

3. Advocating for your rights and articulating why your dismissal was unfair under the law.

Bentham Sydney Employment Lawyers will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the justice you deserve. If you believe your dismissal was unfair, contact us today for a confidential consultation. Our team will assess your case and guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your workplace rights are protected.

This article provides general information. For specific advice, please contact Bentham Sydney Employment Lawyers.

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Got Questions?

Unfair dismissal occurs when an employee is terminated from their job in a manner that is harsh, unjust, or unreasonable. This may involve a lack of a valid reason for dismissal, failure to follow proper procedural requirements, or dismissal in retaliation for exercising workplace rights. To determine if a dismissal is unfair, various factors are considered, including the reason for the dismissal and whether proper processes were followed. For personalised advice on whether a dismissal may be considered unfair, contact Bentham Sydney Employment Lawyers for expert assistance.

If an employer receives an unfair dismissal claim, they should promptly review the details of the claim and gather all relevant documentation related to the termination. It is essential to assess whether proper procedures were followed and if the dismissal was for a valid reason. Employers should also prepare to engage in conciliation or hearings with the Fair Work Commission if required. For guidance on how to handle an unfair dismissal claim and to ensure compliance with the Fair Work Act, contact Bentham Sydney Employment Lawyers for expert advice.

Yes, employees on probationary periods can still claim unfair dismissal. However, there are specific considerations for probationary employees, such as whether the dismissal was based on a valid reason and if proper procedural fairness was observed. Probationary employees must demonstrate that their dismissal was not justified or that it breached the terms of their employment. For advice on unfair dismissal claims during probationary periods, contact Bentham Sydney Employment Lawyers to explore your options.

To support an unfair dismissal claim, an employee typically needs to provide evidence such as their employment contract, records of performance reviews, communications related to the dismissal, and any evidence of procedural breaches. Additionally, demonstrating that the dismissal was not for a valid reason or that proper processes were not followed is crucial. For assistance in gathering and presenting the necessary evidence for your claim, contact Bentham Sydney Employment Lawyers for expert support.

Employers can minimise the risk of unfair dismissal claims by ensuring they follow proper procedures, including providing clear reasons for termination, adhering to company policies and employment contracts, and offering opportunities for the employee to respond to concerns. Conducting thorough performance reviews and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations are also key. For tailored advice on preventing unfair dismissal claims and implementing best practices, contact Bentham Sydney Employment Lawyers for expert guidance.

If an unfair dismissal claim is successful, remedies may include reinstatement to the former position or compensation for lost wages and other entitlements. The Fair Work Commission will consider factors such as the impact of reinstatement on workplace dynamics and the financial losses suffered by the employee. Compensation calculations involve assessing lost remuneration, deducting any earnings since termination, and applying statutory caps. For detailed advice on the remedies available and how to pursue them, contact Bentham Sydney Employment Lawyers for expert legal assistance.