Lake Macquarie City Council has reinstated a long-term employee after initially terminating her employment amid allegations of workplace bullying. The council now faces a court hearing over the claims.
Development planner Louise Cooper was sacked on October 23, 2025, two weeks after she filed a notice of motion in the NSW Supreme Court alleging bullying and threats. The council denied the allegations at the time.
However, a day after her dismissal, Ms Cooper filed an affidavit, prompting Supreme Court Judge Mark Ierace to express concern that the council's action appeared 'pre-emptive and quite inappropriate.' The council subsequently rescinded the termination on Monday and placed Ms Cooper on paid special leave until her case is heard on November 6.
Ms Cooper claims she made disclosures in 2022 about the behaviour of another employee, who has since left the council. She alleges she then suffered bullying and intimidation, requiring medical treatment for stress and anxiety. 'I've been working two days a week from home, and that incapacity has arisen because of their constant retaliatory conduct and bullying and threats,' she said.
A council spokesperson said the claims would be disputed in court, describing them as 'lacking in substance.' The council has applied to strike out Ms Cooper's claim, with the application to be heard in November 2025.
