The inquiry into allegations of bullying against Victorian Small Business Minister Adem Somyurek - who resigned yesterday - considered the merits of referring the matter to police for investigation and prosecution under "Brodie's law", a Government report has revealed.
The parents of a worker who died in a car accident while driving from work to university have lost their appeal for death benefits, while a manager who sustained a psychological injury after being transferred has also been denied compensation on appeal.
An employer has successfully argued that confidential workplace investigation documents shouldn't be published in a Fair Work Commission bullying case, as their release could undermine future investigations and employee confidence in its policies and procedures.
The Fair Work Commission has highlighted the "stark" contrast between a union official's claim that he needs an entry permit to ensure the safety of workers, and his bullying and intimidation of an inspector.
Western Australia's proposed mirror WHS laws for the resources sector should include a duty of care at worker accommodation facilities, suicide-specific provisions and a special Code of Practice that addresses rosters, fatigue and bullying, the parliamentary inquiry into FIFO arrangements has recommended.
The head of the Fair Work Commission's anti-bullying panel has found the Commission can only make "formal orders" referring bullying incidents to a WHS regulator if the alleged victim faces ongoing work health and safety risks.
The actions of a company's general and HR managers, in berating a worker in a surprise meeting before threatening to discipline him, constituted repeated unreasonable behaviour and bullying within the meaning of the Fair Work Act, the Fair Work Commission has found.
