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Dismissing an employee by text, without warning and without a valid reason, was "inappropriate and regrettable", the Fair Work Commission has found in ordering compensation.

Rejecting the employer's stated reasons for its decision, Commissioner Stephen Crawford noted its action was "extremely unfair".

Sydney Luxury Smash Repairs dismissed the panel beater in October 2024, via a text message that said: "Don't bother coming back. Just come pick up your tools on Saturday."

That exchange occurred two days after the employee texted to say he couldn't attend work due to a back injury, to which the employer's director replied: "F-ck sakes. You have so much f-cking time off."...