Log in or become a subscriber

An employer's immediate and "considerate" response to an employee's workload complaints didn't mitigate the fact it asked "too much" of her over an extended period, making it liable for her psychological injury.

The Road Freight Services office manager had claimed workers' compensation for an adjustment disorder with depressed and anxious mood, caused by "cumulative" workplace stress.

Her claim was rejected at first instance and again on review, under the exemption for reasonable management action taken in a reasonable way, and she appealed to the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission.

The Commission heard that in November 2018, the employee informed the employer's director she was concerned about the business, her workload, and significant staff shortages, as well as the overall stress she was experiencing as a result...