JobKeeper has been a lifesaver for many people and
companies.
However, by the end of 2020, as COVID-19 restrictions started to
ease and work increased, a different issue emerged –
JobKeeper employees refusing to attend work.
A recent decision of the Fair Work Commission provides some
reassurance and guidance to employers in this situation, upholding
dismissal of a casual employee receiving JobKeeper payments
throughout most of 2020 but who did not make himself available to
work.
Background
Mr Howard was employed by Pinnacle People, a labour hire
company. He had worked a regular and systematic pattern of
engagement in various hospitality positions up until 7 March 2020,
just as the COVID-19 restrictions commenced.
