[2025] FWC 2996
Citation: [2025] FWC 2996
At a glance
- Employees affected
- 1
What happened
Robert John Wilson, a Parking Patrol Officer, was employed by Care Park Pty Ltd from January 15, 2024. He was injured at work in November 2024 and subsequently had a dispute regarding workers' compensation. Care Park’s lawyers advised Wilson on February 26, 2025, that they disputed his workers' compensation and were proceeding to a hearing. On March 6, 2025, Wilson inquired about his employment status. Care Park responded, seemingly inviting him to resign. Wilson found an email dated June 5, 2025, in his junk folder, stating his employment was terminated, and filed an unfair dismissal application on June 26, 2025.
What was decided
The Fair Work Commission found that Wilson’s application for unfair dismissal was filed within the 21-day time limit. The Commission rejected Care Park’s argument that the dismissal occurred on February 26, 2025. The Deputy President determined the date of dismissal was June 5, 2025, the date Wilson received the email confirming his termination. The jurisdictional objection raised by Care Park was dismissed, and the case will proceed to determine the merits of Wilson’s unfair dismissal claim.
What it means for employers
Employers must ensure clear and timely communication regarding employment terminations. Invitations to resign, without a formal acceptance, do not constitute a termination. Employers should also be mindful of the importance of delivering important notifications in a way that ensures employees receive them, rather than relying on junk email folders.
What it means for employees
Employees should regularly check all email folders, including junk folders, for important communications from their employer. Promptly responding to communications regarding employment status can help ensure compliance with time limits for lodging unfair dismissal claims.
Every statement above is drawn from the published decision. Read the original here:
https://www.fwc.gov.au/documents/decisionssigned/pdf/2025fwc2996.pdfWant more cases like this?
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This summary was drafted by AI from the published decision and reviewed before publishing. It is general information, not legal advice. For your specific situation, speak to the Fair Work Ombudsman (13 13 94) or a qualified lawyer. About these summaries & corrections →