EMPLOYMENT LAW

As an employee, you have certain rights at work, one of which includes the right to be free from any form of discrimination, harassment and bullying. Some examples of bullying include, setting unrealistic targets, excessive job scrutiny, intentional exclusion or ostracising of an employee from the workplace or group activities Other forms of bullying can include verbal abuse, intimidation, spreading rumours about a co-worker and interfering with an individual’s personal property. In saying this, some forms of conduct such as meeting a tight deadline or the requirement of close supervision, may not constitute bullying and instead is excusable in light of the specific work environment or task that needs to be completed. You have been discriminated against if you have been treated less favourably (“adverse action”) in the workplace based on factors such as age, gender identity, race, sexuality, disability, pregnancy, parental status, or marital status. Adverse action can include injuring an employee, dismissing an employee, the refusal of an employee and terms and conditions in the employment contract that effectively discriminate against the prospective employee. The Fair Work Act 2009 does however identify that some differential treatment may not be considered discriminatory as the work to be done may require a person of specific attribute. Peerzada and Associates has represented clients in the area or harassment, discrimination and bullying in the past and should you feel that you have been victimised in this area, please contact our office today