Most of us need to work. A healthy work environment makes us all happier and more productive. When problems arise, however, legal issues can ensue, impacting operations. At GR Legal, we represent clients in legal matters related to employment and industrial relations. Contact us at 03 9755 8345 to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help.
The Industrial Relations Commission and Court
Industrial Relation Commissions and Courts vary among states and territories and have undergone many changes over the years. Generally, these Commissions and Courts review or resolve industrial disputes, unfair dismissal claims, and other employment-related matters.
Industrial Relations for Workers in Victoria
At GR Legal, we represent and advise workers. Some of the legal services we provide are summarised here.
Workplace Documentation
You should never sign an employment contract (or contractor's agreement) without first obtaining advice on the terms of the document.
We can assist you in reviewing your current employment contract documentation. We will provide clear and practical advice, including when you are starting a new job, are part of a restructuring process occurring in your current workplace, or considering leaving your current employment and seeking advice on restraint-of-trade clauses.
Dismissals and Redundancy
If your employment has been terminated or your position has been made redundant, we can provide you with advice on any claims that may be available to you. If you believe that you have been unfairly dismissed from your employment, or treated harshly, unjustly, or unreasonably, then you may be eligible to make an application to the Fair Work Commission. It is important to remember that strict time frames apply to making claims of this nature.
Workplace Disputes
Disputes will inevitably arise in the workplace. We can assist in all forms of disputes to ensure that a resolution is concluded in the most cost-effective and efficient manner.
Discrimination
Discrimination occurs when certain people – based on characteristics like race, age, or sex – are unjustly or prejudicially treated. It occurs when someone with a certain characteristic is treated less favourably than someone without that characteristic. Discrimination also occurs when an unreasonable policy applies in the workplace and it has a deeper impact on a particular person or group of people because of a certain characteristic that they may have.
We can assist you if you have suffered any form of discrimination in the workplace, including being dismissed from your employment for discriminatory reasons, or being demoted or disadvantaged by discriminatory means.
The majority of discrimination claims are successfully settled without ever needing to go to court. We have considerable knowledge and experience to negotiate and effectively reach a settlement on your behalf.
Bullying and Harassment
Anyone can be subjected to bullying in the workplace. No one should put up with unlawful bullying or workplace harassment.
We can assist you in seeking to put a stop to workplace bullying. We also have the expertise and experience to assist you in making a bullying or harassment claim and to reach a quick and cost-effective resolution.
Industrial Relations for Employers
At GR Legal, we also represent and advise employers. Our legal advice and representation may include but are not limited to any of the below types of matters.
Workplace Documentation
Having well-prepared and carefully documented workplace contracts, policies, and procedures can reduce the possibility of disputes and conflicts and can also give rise to a more productive and efficient workforce. We can assist you with amending your current or preparing new employment contracts, contractor agreements, consultancy agreements, or workplace policies and procedures.
We can also assist you with providing advice on specific issues or proposed courses of action as they arise in your business. Obtaining advice as matters arise can often minimise risk and the possibility of claims arising. However, if a dispute arises then we can provide you with all relevant advice and assist you in bringing the dispute to the quickest resolution possible.
Dismissals and Redundancy
The termination of an employee's employment should never be taken lightly or be completed without first obtaining appropriate advice. In the absence of appropriate advice, you run the risk of being involved in expensive and time-consuming litigation.
If the termination of an employee's employment is not handled properly, the employee may be eligible to make an application to the Fair Work Commission for an unfair dismissal remedy, claiming an unlawful termination, for a general protection order, or one of the many other claims available to employees. We can provide you with advice on the legal requirements and proper processes to be followed in the termination of an employee's employment.
Workplace Disputes
Disputes will inevitably arise in the workplace. We can assist in all forms of disputes raised by employees to ensure that a resolution is concluded in the most cost-effective and efficient manner.
Discrimination
Discrimination occurs when someone with a certain characteristic is treated less favourably than someone without that characteristic. Discrimination also occurs when an unreasonable policy applies in the workplace and it impacts more on a particular person or group of people because of a certain characteristic that they may have.
Understanding the legal requirements relating to anti-discrimination laws and having clear, compliant, and practical workplace policies and procedures can significantly decrease the risk of discrimination in the workplace and subsequent discrimination claims.
We can provide you with advice on anti-discrimination laws and assist you in amending your current or preparing new workplace policies and procedures.
Bullying and Harassment
All employers should understand the rights and responsibilities relating to workplace bullying and harassment. We provide advice on the relevant laws and assist you in amending your current or preparing new workplace policies and procedures. If a claim is brought against you, we will work quickly to resolve it.
Contact our Industrial Relations Lawyers in Victoria Today
At GR Legal, our employment and industrial relations lawyers help clients manage work-related obligations and resolve workplace disputes. Call on 03 9755 8345 to schedule a consultation and learn more about the specific industrial relations laws, regulations, and procedures in Victoria today.