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ARTICLE · 24 JUNE 2020

WorkCover sues AFP over systemic bullying and harassment

Holding Redlich
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Employers might face increased liability for injuries caused by workplace bullies if they fail to act on complaints of bullying.

AustraliaEmployment and HR
Kathryn Cramp
Kathryn Cramp
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WorkCover has taken the unusual step of suing the Australian Federal Police (AFP) concerning alledged bullying of a staff member over many years by senior manager Julie Drummond.

The litigation in the Victorian Supreme Court concerns the notoriously difficult problem for employers to prove allegations against workplace bullies to a standard that allows them to take disciplinary action against them.

If successful, the suit could mean employers may face increased liability for injuries caused by workplace bullies if they fail to act on complaints of bullying.

Background

In the past few years, the AFP has drawn national media attention relating to misconduct scandals and alledgedly systemic issues of sexual harassment, sexism and bullying.

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This publication does not deal with every important topic or change in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you have found this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances please contact one of the named individuals listed.

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