University of Melbourne Faces Near $75,000 Fine for Threatening Casual Employees

Published on April 7, 2024

The University of Melbourne was penalised nearly $74,590 (US$49,000) for violating fair work legislation on two counts—threatening two casual academics in August 2020 and refusing further work to one of them in February 2021. The Fair Work Ombudsman took legal action against the institution, bringing the case to the Federal Court. The two staff members requested compensation after working beyond their contracted hours. In response, a university supervisor gave warned them that claiming such payment would endanger future employment opportunities. Justice Craig Dowling found this to be a serious breach of the Fair Work Act, which states that employees have the right to express workload concerns and appropriate compensation without receiving any consequences for doing so....

Continue reading on website
Other news

Arrests Made, Including 6 Minors, in Retail Theft Operation in Los Angeles

April 6, 2024
LOS ANGELES—A recent investigation into organized retail thefts near MacArthur Park netted several arrests, including two children who allegedly tried to sell stolen merchandise to street vendors, authorities said Friday.The March 27 operation was conducted by personnel from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and “asset protection managers from multiple retail outlets,” according to the LAPD

Illegal Dumping to Blame for Melbourne Park Asbestos

April 7, 2024
Asbestos fragments found at Melbourne parks could have been illegally dumped, according to the environmental watchdog.The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is investigating after asbestos fragments were found in the mulch of up to six Melbourne parks within the Hobsons Bay City Council and Merri-bek Council areas.Investigations are continuing into who supplied the mulch to three Altona Nort