A former federal public servant has lost an unfair dismissal case after being sacked for excessive absences. The Fair Work Commission found that the dismissal was not harsh, unjust, or unreasonable.
The employee, who worked for the Department of Human Services, had taken 28 days of unscheduled leave over a two-year period. The department argued that this level of absenteeism was unacceptable and disrupted operations.
The commission noted that the employee had been warned multiple times about her attendance and had been given opportunities to improve. Despite these warnings, the absences continued, leading to her termination in 2022.
The ruling reinforces the importance of reliable attendance in the public service and serves as a reminder that employers can take action when performance standards are not met.
