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A recent decision by the Fair Work Commission has again reinforced the importance of honesty and trust in the workplace. In this case, a solicitor’s decision to misuse sick leave for a weekend away—and post about it on social media—ultimately led to his summary dismissal being upheld as fair.

“Sick leave is built on trust, not a technicality to be exploited. When that trust is broken, the consequences are often swift and justified.”

What Happened?

The Melbourne-based solicitor called in sick for two workdays (a Friday and the following Monday), claiming he was unwell. However, his employer later discovered he had travelled interstate to Adelaide to attend AFL events and had posted about the weekend on social media platforms.

His employer, a small law firm, acted swiftly under the Small Business Fair Dismissal Code, asserting that the solicitor’s behaviour amounted to serious misconduct. The solicitor challenged the termination by lodging an unfair dismissal claim with the Fair Work Commission.

The Commission dismissed the claim, finding that the employer had a reasonable belief that serious misconduct had occurred and was justified in terminating the employee without a full investigation.

Key Takeaways for Employers

This case is a reminder of two essential principles for managing misconduct in the workplace:

1. The Small Business Fair Dismissal Code Can Offer Protection
Where an employer has a reasonable basis to believe serious misconduct has taken place—such as dishonesty, falsified documentation, or a breach of trust—the Code can be relied upon to justify immediate dismissal, even without a formal investigation.

2. Documentation Still Matters
Although a full investigation was not required in this case, the employer’s ability to point to deceptive conduct, misleading medical documents, and a false statutory declaration supported the Commission’s decision. Maintaining clear records of misconduct helps uphold fair process and protect against future disputes.

Why Integrity in the Workplace Matters

Trust is central to every employment relationship. When it is broken—particularly through deliberate dishonesty—dismissal may not only be fair but necessary to protect the integrity of the workplace.

“The integrity of the employment relationship relies on trust. Once broken, dismissal may be not only fair but necessary.”

What This Means for Small Business Employers

Small businesses often face challenges in managing employee conduct while meeting legal obligations. This case shows that when serious misconduct occurs, a reasonable and documented response can stand up to scrutiny. However, employers should still aim to follow a fair and balanced process, even when the circumstances seem clear-cut.

At The BelRose Group, we support employers to navigate complex HR and employee relations matters with clarity, professionalism, and care. If you’re unsure how to manage a misconduct issue or apply the Small Business Fair Dismissal Code correctly, our team is here to help.

Need guidance on managing misconduct in your workplace? Contact The BelRose Group for tailored advice.

From 2026, all Australian employers with 500 or more employees will be legally required to set and work towards three gender equality targets. This forms part of the most significant reforms to the Workplace Gender Equality Act 2012 in over a decade and marks a shift from reporting to meaningful, measurable action.

Under the updated requirements, each organisation must select its targets during the 2025–26 reporting cycle. These targets must be drawn from a list approved by the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) and must include at least one numerical goal. Employers will then have three years to demonstrate genuine progress.

“Targets alone don’t create change, but when backed by data, action, and accountability, they can reshape workplace culture for the better.”

What Are the New Gender Equality Targets?

The targets focus on measurable change and are designed to drive structural improvement in gender equality. Options include:

• Reducing gender pay gaps

• Improving gender balance in leadership

• Expanding access to flexible work arrangements

• Strengthening anti-harassment and discrimination measures

Once selected, targets cannot be changed or abandoned, highlighting the need for careful planning, data analysis, and strategic alignment.

Reporting Deadlines to Note

• Private sector employers will report between April and May 2026

• Public sector employers will report between September and October 2026

These timeframes mean the next 12 months are critical for preparation. Organisations must take deliberate steps to understand their current position, identify meaningful targets, and implement initiatives that will deliver measurable results.

What Happens If Employers Do Not Make Progress?

WGEA will publicly name employers that do not demonstrate progress against their targets. In addition, failure to meet these obligations may result in loss of eligibility for government contracts and other reputational impacts.

How The BelRose Group Can Help

At The BelRose Group, we are already working with clients across Australia to prepare for these upcoming changes. Our support includes:

• Conducting detailed gender pay gap and workforce analysis

• Reviewing existing workplace policies and practices

• Advising on target selection aligned with strategic goals

• Developing practical and sustainable implementation plans

We believe that gender equality targets are not just a compliance requirement—they are a valuable tool for driving cultural change and building fairer, more inclusive workplaces.

Plan Now, Succeed Later

This reform is about moving from passive awareness to deliberate action. The organisations that succeed will be those that begin early, plan thoroughly, and implement changes with purpose.

If you’re seeking tailored advice or hands-on support to meet WGEA’s gender equality target requirements, we’re here to help.

Contact The BelRose Group today to discuss how we can support your organisation’s journey towards greater gender equality.

Secret recordings in the workplace can have serious consequences, especially when disputes or unfair dismissal claims arise. While some employees may believe that recording a conversation offers protection, doing so can breach legal boundaries, erode trust, and in some cases, result in lawful termination.

“Trust is the foundation of every workplace — and secretly recording conversations, even when legal, can erode that trust beyond repair.”

A recent case, Altham-Wooding v PKDK Adventures, highlights just how risky secret recordings can be. In this Victorian matter, a casual employee recorded a workplace conversation after her shifts were reduced without explanation. She intended to use the recording as evidence in an unfair dismissal claim. However, the Fair Work Commission ruled otherwise.

Deputy President Saunders found the employee’s actions to be inappropriate and a breach of the duty of good faith. The recording was excluded from evidence, and despite the employer only learning of the act during proceedings, the Commission found it was a valid reason for dismissal.

As noted in the ruling: “Even if lawful, secretly recording a workplace conversation can be enough to justify dismissal if it damages trust.”

What Does the Law Say?

The legality of recording workplace conversations differs by state and territory:

• New South Wales: Illegal to record private conversations without the consent of all parties.

• Victoria & Queensland: Legal if you are a participant in the conversation.

• South Australia, Western Australia, ACT: Illegal without the consent of all parties involved.

• Tasmania & Northern Territory: Legal if you are a party to the conversation.

What Should Employers Do?

To avoid confusion and reduce risk:

• Develop a clear workplace recording policy outlining expectations and consequences.

• Educate staff on the importance of trust, confidentiality, and professional conduct.

• Know your legal obligations before making decisions based on recorded conversations.

Even when technically legal, secret recordings may still breach workplace policies or destroy the foundation of trust giving rise to disciplinary action or dismissal under the Fair Work Act.

At The BelRose Group, we believe that the success of any organisation is built on the wellbeing of its people. Psychosocial hazards in the workplace can have a profound impact on employee wellbeing, engagement, and overall organisational culture. As People & Culture specialists, we encourage our clients — and the broader BelRose community — to stay proactive in identifying and managing these risks to create safer, healthier, and more resilient workplaces.

“A safe and healthy workplace isn’t just about managing physical risks — it’s about recognising the impact of psychosocial hazards and creating an environment where people feel supported, valued, and mentally well every day.”

What Are Psychosocial Hazards?

Psychosocial hazards are factors within a workplace that can cause psychological harm, mental health challenges, or stress. Unlike physical hazards that involve risks such as injuries or accidents, psychosocial hazards arise from job demands, organisational practices, workplace relationships, and environmental conditions that may negatively affect an employee’s mental health.

Common Examples of Psychosocial Hazards

While psychosocial hazards vary between workplaces and industries, some common examples include:

• High job demands – Excessive workloads, unrealistic deadlines, or sustained pressure to perform.

• Low job control – Limited autonomy or decision-making ability in managing tasks.

• Poor support – Inadequate guidance, feedback, or assistance from leaders or peers.

• Workplace conflict – Bullying, harassment, or interpersonal tensions within teams.

• Job insecurity – Uncertainty about ongoing employment due to organisational change or contract work.

• Exposure to traumatic events – Regular involvement in or witnessing of distressing situations, particularly in frontline or emergency response roles.

Why Are Psychosocial Hazards a Workplace Concern?

Unaddressed psychosocial hazards can lead to increased absenteeism, higher staff turnover, reduced productivity, and serious mental health concerns, such as anxiety and depression. Beyond the human impact, organisations may experience reputational damage, decreased employee engagement, and rising operational costs.

Psychosocial hazards are just as critical as physical risks. Creating a workplace environment that supports mental wellbeing is not only a legal obligation under Australian workplace health and safety legislation, it is a key driver of organisational performance, culture, and long-term success.

Managing Psychosocial Hazards – A Proactive Approach

Employers have a duty of care to identify, assess, and manage psychosocial risks in their workplace. Practical strategies to support this include:

1. Conduct Regular Risk Assessments

Use employee feedback, surveys, and workplace observations to identify potential psychosocial hazards early.

2. Foster Supportive Leadership

Encourage open communication, provide constructive feedback, and build a culture of trust, respect, and inclusion.

3. Manage Workloads Effectively

Ensure job demands are realistic and balanced, promoting healthy work-life integration.

4. Establish Clear Policies and Procedures

Implement policies that address bullying, harassment, workplace conflict, and outline clear resolution processes.

5. Promote Mental Health Initiatives

Support employees through access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), mental health training, and peer-support initiatives.

Partnering with The BelRose Group

At The BelRose Group, we work with organisations to embed practical, people-first strategies that support positive workplace culture and employee wellbeing.

If you would like to learn more about identifying and managing psychosocial hazards in your workplace, please contact us, we are here to help you create a safe, supportive, and high-performing work environment.

At The BelRose Group, we often hear the word “culture” used interchangeably with things like Friday drinks, ping pong tables, or the much-loved office snack station. And while those things can make a workplace enjoyable, they are not, on their own, indicators of a strong organisational culture.  As we move deeper into 2025, the most successful and sustainable workplaces are shifting away from performative perks and towards authentic, people-centric cultures. The difference? One is surface level. The other is structural.

“It is important to remember that culture isn’t defined by perks—it’s shaped by trust, psychological safety, and how people feel at work every day.”

Culture Is How People Feel at Work

A true people-centric culture is felt, not marketed. It’s evident in how people speak to each other, how they’re supported in tough times, and how aligned they feel with the organisation’s purpose.

It’s also built intentionally. A culture that attracts, engages, and retains great people doesn’t happen by accident, it’s a reflection of consistent behaviour, clear expectations, and leadership alignment.

Perks Don’t Build Belonging

Let’s be clear, there’s nothing wrong with fun or social elements in the workplace. But a free lunch doesn’t cancel out a toxic manager. A flashy office doesn’t replace psychological safety. And casual Fridays don’t make up for a lack of trust, autonomy, or growth.  People want to feel valued! They want to contribute meaningfully. They want to belong. These needs aren’t met through perks, they’re met through intentional leadership and genuine care.

What Actually Builds a People-Centric Culture?

In our work across a wide range of sectors, we’ve found that the organisations doing this well focus on a few key areas:

1. Trust and Transparency
   Clear communication, especially during uncertainty, builds trust. When people are kept informed and consulted, they feel respected and engaged.
2. Psychological Safety
   People need to feel safe to speak up, ask questions, or admit mistakes without fear of blame. This is a cornerstone of high-performing teams.
3. Inclusion and Belonging
   Diversity without inclusion is hollow. Belonging means everyone, regardless of background or role, feels seen, heard, and valued.
4. Leadership That Listens
   Strong culture starts at the top. When leaders model vulnerability, empathy, and accountability, it sends a powerful message to the entire organisation.
5. Purposeful Recognition
   It’s not about trophies or grand gestures. It’s about acknowledging real contributions and celebrating wins in meaningful ways.
6. Growth and Development
   People stay where they grow. Providing access to learning, mentoring, and clear pathways builds both capability and loyalty.

In 2025, Culture Is a Strategic Priority

In the current climate, culture is no longer a “nice to have”, it’s a competitive advantage. It drives engagement, innovation, and ultimately, organisational success. At The BelRose Group, we support organisations to embed values, build connection, and align people strategies with long-term goals.

So yes, enjoy the snacks. Keep the casual Fridays if they make sense for your team. But remember, culture is so much more than what’s visible. It’s the environment people experience every day, and it’s the foundation of everything that follows.

If you’d like to explore how your culture is really tracking (beyond the beanbags), we’d love to chat.   The BelRose Group can develop a personalised pulse check survey fit for your organisation!

In recent years, the process of obtaining medical certificates has undergone a significant shift, thanks to the growing availability of telehealth services across Australia. These online platforms offer a convenient solution for individuals needing proof of illness or unfitness for work—without the need for an in-person doctor’s visit. But with this convenience comes a common question: Are online medical certificates actually legal in Australia?

“Online medical certificates aren’t just convenient—they’re a legitimate, compliant way to support employee wellbeing and reduce time away from work.”

The Legal Standing of Online Medical Certificates

Yes, online medical certificates are legal in Australia—provided they are issued by a qualified and registered Australian health practitioner following a proper medical assessment. The Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) allows employers to request reasonable evidence to verify personal leave, and a medical certificate—whether obtained in-person or online—can meet this requirement.

The Australian Medical Association (AMA) also outlines clear guidelines for issuing certificates, reinforcing that any document provided must be truthful, professionally justified, and based on accurate information supplied by the patient. Importantly, while it is illegal to backdate a certificate, a doctor may note that an illness or condition began prior to the consultation if this can be clinically supported.

What Must a Valid Certificate Include?

To be considered valid, a medical certificate—whether issued face-to-face or online—must include:

• The name and address of the health practitioner

• The name of the patient

• The date of the consultation

• The period (or estimated period) of leave

• Confirmation that the practitioner believes the patient is unfit for work

Medical certificates should not disclose sensitive health information unless the patient has explicitly consented to its inclusion. Employers are within their rights to confirm the authenticity of a certificate with the issuing practitioner, but they cannot seek or access further personal health details without the employee’s permission.

A Practical Solution for Today’s Workforce

When used correctly, online medical certificates offer a legitimate and efficient option for Australians needing to verify sick leave. With more people working remotely or juggling non-traditional hours, this approach supports accessibility and reduces the strain on physical healthcare services.

The key takeaway? As long as the certificate is issued by a qualified practitioner, adheres to professional standards, and includes the necessary information, it holds the same legal weight as one obtained in person.

“Casual employment reform isn’t just about compliance—it’s an opportunity to foster job security, enhance workplace stability, and build a more engaged and committed workforce.”

What’s Changing?

The biggest shift is giving casual employees more control over their employment status. If they meet eligibility criteria, they can opt to move into a permanent role, providing them with more stability, including paid leave entitlements. Employers must now be ready to assess these requests fairly and provide valid reasons if declining them.

Why Does This Matter?

This change could significantly impact workforce planning, rostering, and business costs. Employers need to be across the new rules to ensure compliance and avoid potential disputes. Failing to handle conversion requests properly could lead to legal and reputational risks.

What Should Employers Do Now?

• Review Contracts & Policies – Ensure employment agreements reflect the new laws.

• Assess Eligibility – Identify casual employees who may be eligible for conversion.

• Prepare for Requests – Have a clear process in place to manage and respond to employee requests.

• Understand Reasonable Grounds for Refusal – Employers can only decline requests based on genuine operational reasons.

Get Ready for the Change

These updates reinforce the importance of understanding employee entitlements and having strong workplace policies in place. If you’re unsure how these changes impact your business, seeking professional advice can help ensure a smooth transition.

Are you prepared for the shift? Now is the time to take action!

“Achieving gender pay equity isn’t just about compliance— it’s a strategic advantage that fosters trust, boosts retention, and attracts top talent.”

Understanding the New Requirements

Mandatory gender pay gap reporting is now required for Australian private sector employers with 100 or more employees, commencing with the 2023–2024 financial year. Under this requirement, employers must submit workforce composition, salary, and bonus data to the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA). While individual organisation data will not be publicly disclosed initially, industry-wide results will be available, fostering benchmarking and transparency. Given that women in Australia earn, on average, 22.8% less than men, this initiative is a significant step toward addressing pay disparities and promoting accountability.

Steps to Prepare for Compliance

Employers must take proactive steps to comply with the new reporting obligations. A key initial measure is conducting a comprehensive payroll audit to identify and analyse any existing pay disparities. Understanding the reporting framework and requirements is crucial to ensure accurate submissions. Beyond compliance, organisations should leverage collected data to develop strategic action plans aimed at closing pay gaps. This includes reviewing hiring processes, promotion criteria, and bonus structures to ensure they are equitable and gender-neutral.

Engaging leadership in this initiative is vital, as their commitment will drive meaningful change. Transparent communication with employees regarding the steps being taken can help build trust and reinforce an inclusive workplace culture.

The Business Advantage of Pay Equity

Addressing gender pay gaps is not solely a compliance requirement—it is also a strategic business advantage. Organisations that prioritise pay equity often experience higher employee morale, improved retention rates, and an enhanced ability to attract top talent. A fair and equitable workplace fosters engagement and productivity, contributing to long-term organisational success.

At The BelRose Group, we specialise in guiding organisations through gender pay audits, action planning, and compliance with reporting requirements. Our expertise can help your business navigate these changes while strengthening workplace culture and ensuring equitable opportunities for all employees.

Take Action Today

To stay ahead of the changes and demonstrate leadership in workplace equity, contact The BelRose Group today. We can assist in ensuring compliance while supporting your organisation in fostering a fair and inclusive work environment.

“Strategic workforce planning isn’t just about filling roles—it’s about building a resilient, future-ready organisation that thrives in an ever-changing world.”

Future-Proofing the Workforce

As technology and market trends rapidly evolve, planning for future skills is essential. P&C teams should work alongside workforce planners to anticipate emerging roles and competencies. By developing targeted upskilling and reskilling programs, organisations can ensure employees remain equipped to meet new challenges.

Building a future-ready workforce requires continuous learning initiatives, investment in professional development, and strategic talent acquisition. This forward-thinking approach not only secures business continuity but also strengthens employee engagement and retention.

Encouraging Internal Mobility

One of the most effective ways to retain talent and reduce hiring costs is by fostering internal mobility. Encouraging lateral moves, mentorship programs, and cross-departmental transitions helps employees expand their skill sets and advance their careers within the organisation.

Creating clear succession pathways for key roles further supports business continuity. Internal job boards, leadership development programs, and structured career progression plans enable employees to visualise their future within the company, reducing turnover and enhancing job satisfaction.

Embracing Agility in Workforce Planning

A successful workforce strategy must be agile, capable of adapting to market changes, technological disruptions, and economic fluctuations. Scenario planning prepares organisations for various future outcomes, allowing them to develop contingency strategies that ensure stability.

By regularly reviewing workforce plans and adjusting them based on real-time insights, businesses can respond swiftly to unexpected challenges. This proactive approach minimises disruption and keeps operations running smoothly.

Engaging Employees in Workforce Planning

Employee engagement is a key component of effective workforce planning. Involving employees in discussions about career growth, skill development, and workplace improvements fosters a sense of ownership and alignment with organisational goals.

Regular surveys, focus groups, and feedback mechanisms provide valuable insights into employee aspirations and potential areas for development. Recognising and nurturing internal talent helps organisations unlock hidden potential and build a stronger workforce from within.

Leveraging Technology for Smarter Workforce Decisions

Technology plays a pivotal role in modern workforce planning. AI-driven analytics, workforce management software, and automation tools streamline talent acquisition and development processes. Predictive analytics enables organisations to anticipate turnover, forecast staffing needs, and make data-driven hiring decisions.

By integrating technology into workforce planning, P&C teams can improve efficiency, reduce manual processes, and enhance decision-making capabilities. This digital transformation supports long-term business sustainability and a competitive edge in the marketplace.

Conclusion

Aligning talent strategies with business goals is a continuous and collaborative process. By focusing on future skills, encouraging internal mobility, and embracing agility, P&C teams can build a resilient and adaptable workforce. Engaging employees and leveraging technology further enhances workforce planning, ensuring organisations stay competitive in an ever-changing landscape.

By taking a strategic, forward-thinking approach, businesses can position themselves for long-term success while fostering a motivated and capable workforce.