More than ever, employees are aware of their legal rights, through publicity about cases and awareness of laws that protect them in the workplace. In Australia's increasingly litigious society, employees and prospective employees are more likely to take legal action in relation to their employment, promotion and treatment by employers and colleagues in the workplace.
Employment practices claims can be made by:
- employees
- former employees
- volunteers
- job applicants
Allegations can be made (even if ultimately rejected by a Court) which can be costly, in terms of time, legal fees and damage to reputation. Where allegations are successful, significant damages can be awarded against the company as well as the individual directors and officers of the company.
The hidden costs of employee-related problems include:
- negative publicity
- damage to reputation and goodwill
- loss of productivity (for both the employer and employee)
- stress to the employer and employee
Insurance is available to cover defence costs and specified damages if you are taken to court for certain employment related issues, including:
- unfair dismissal
- wrongful refusal to employ
- wrongful failure to promote
- wrongful demotion
- sexual harassment
- discrimination
- defamation
- breach of employment contract
We can help you to protect your organisation against an Employment Practices Liability exposure.
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