[2025] FWC 1219
At a glance
- 1
What happened
the Applicant was dismissed from Central Queensland Services Pty Ltd in September 2024, following an altercation at the Caval Ridge Mine where he worked at BM Alliance Coal Operations Pty Ltd. He received five weeks’ pay in lieu of notice. The dismissal related to his involvement in the altercation. the Applicant applied to the Fair Work Commission for an unfair dismissal remedy. The matter proceeded to a hearing in January 2025, with evidence presented by both the Applicant and several witnesses for the Respondent.
What was decided
The Fair Work Commission granted the Applicant’s application for an unfair dismissal remedy. The Commissioner found that the Applicant met the requirements to be protected from unfair dismissal and that his dismissal was harsh, unjust, or unreasonable. The decision considered whether the dismissal was consistent with the Small Business Fair Dismissal Code and whether it was a case of genuine redundancy, finding it was not. The Commissioner considered the circumstances of the altercation, including whether the Applicant was acting in self-defence, and the Respondent’s failure to genuinely consider his arguments.
What it means for employers
Employers must carefully consider the circumstances surrounding workplace altercations before dismissing employees. A dismissal for fighting is not automatically fair and requires consideration of factors like self-defence and the employee's work history. Employers should ensure they genuinely consider an employee’s explanation and provide a fair opportunity to respond to allegations.
What it means for employees
Employees who believe they were unfairly dismissed, particularly following a workplace incident, should consider applying to the Fair Work Commission. Evidence of self-defence or a lack of genuine consideration by the employer can be crucial in a successful claim.
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