Log in or become a subscriber

A worker on a fixed-term contract, who alleged she was "blocked" from completing the qualification she needed to become a permanent employee, was not dismissed and couldn't pursue an adverse action claim, a Fair Work Commission full bench has found.

The TasTAFE teacher was employed in March 2023 for a "fixed term" of up to 12 months. Her letter of offer said that with satisfactory performance and successful completion of a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, approval for conversion to permanent employment would be sought.

In early February 2024, the employee received a letter that said an extension had been approved – she now had until early May to complete her qualification. Failing that, her employment would be terminated. The email added, "them's the rules" and "Good luck!"...