The Daily Aus Is it legal to chuck a sickie?
Apr 13, 2025
A Melbourne lawyer's firing after taking a sick day for an AFL event has ignited a fierce debate about sick leave rights in Australia. The podcast dives into the legal nuances of sick leave misuse and the consequences of dishonesty at work. It discusses the Fair Work Commission's rulings around mental health days and the necessity of clear communication between employers and employees. The complexities around what constitutes legitimate sick leave are examined, revealing how social media influences modern workplace dynamics.
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Lawyer Fired for Fake Sickie
- A Melbourne lawyer, Mitchell Fuller, was fired for falsely claiming sick leave to attend an AFL game.
- His deception was uncovered via social media posts, leading to an unfair dismissal claim.
Fuller's Defense
- Fuller argued he was entitled to a mental health day, citing ADHD and medication shortages.
- He also claimed the dismissal process was unfair, not giving him a chance to respond.
Commission's Ruling
- The Fair Work Commission deemed Fuller's dismissal justified due to his dishonesty and false statements.
- His role as a lawyer, requiring integrity, further solidified the ruling.