Significant general protections damages award

The Federal Court of Australia has recently ordered an account of damages to be paid to a senior-employee of Hawkesbury Race Club, Mrs Leggett, due to the bullying and harassment resulting from her employment. This case highlights consequences that result from overbearing and harassing management of staff and how injured workers may bring substantial damages claims pursuant to the general protections provisions of the Fair Work Act.

Background

Mrs Leggett started working at Hawkesbury Race Club on January 1991. Her "tenacious nature" as her colleagues described had garnered her full employment at the Club as well as a generous means of remuneration where she was entitled to an annual rate of $25,000 as well as a 10% commission. By the time that a new CEO, Mr Rudolph commenced in that role on the 6^th May 2016, Mrs Leggett was a well-respected and senior employee.