The FWC is seeking feedback within four weeks on its draft online proceedings framework, which outlines how matters can be heard in person, partly online, or fully online, at the discretion of the member.
A FWC member has sought to emphasise that jabs are a matter of choice for employees, rather than a "mandate" imposed by employers, as a tide of COVID-19 vaccination-related unfair dismissal cases work their way through the tribunal.
A senior FWC member has thrown out a union challenge to a Commonwealth-owned business's COVID-19 vaccination mandate, while observing that having a "predisposed view" does not mean an employer has failed to genuinely consult about new policies.
Many workers would forgo a pay rise of up to 10% to secure more say in where and when they work, according to a study that says the Fair Work Act is failing to keep up with flexible practices, while other research says WFH employees save an average of $10,000 a year.
The FWC has upheld the sacking of a multinational business's sales representative who ignored repeated warnings that she had crossed the chief executive's "line in the sand" over speeding in company cars.
In a significant decision clarifying when the FWC can deal with unlawful dismissal matters, a four-member bench has upheld a finding that a bookstore worker alleging discrimination after being sacked for refusing to wear a mask needed to prosecute her case in court.
The FWC has observed that a Victorian worker's application to work full-time from home under flexible work arrangements was largely motivated by her opposition to COVID-19 vaccinations, in upholding her employer's refusal of her request.
Long-time online hearings proponent Commissioner Leigh Johns says the FWC will survey self-represented applicants and respondents to obtain the views of "outsiders" on the way forward for digital proceedings, after "insiders" appeared to hanker for the "good old days".
An aged care provider must compensate a caterer after providing insufficient warning that failing to wear masks correctly could lead to summary dismissal, the FWC has found.
The FWC has upheld the sacking of an airport worker who despite being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 stubbornly refused to provide proof of her inoculation.