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Despite not previously addressing an employee's inappropriate language at work, an employer has been cleared to discipline her for failing to role model "positive workplace behaviours".

Queensland Industrial Relations Commissioner Samantha Pidgeon noted that banter between consenting colleagues could in some instances "make the workplace more enjoyable". In this case, however, the employee's comments could "clearly" be offensive and therefore went beyond "banter".

In November last year, Queensland Corrective Services substantiated allegations that the custodial correctional officer, who worked in a training role, had engaged in "improper workplace conduct" that warranted discipline...