Dr Gabrielle McMullin has faced fierce criticism for recent comments that females seeking a careers as surgeons should not speak out against sexual harassment. Her message was that while vicitms of this type of harassment may have a valid legal claim, making a complaint is likely to destroy their careers. Some commentators described her…
Work-life balance, the ACTU and a jar full of condoms….
This article late last week, about the ‘work-life’ balance statements of Southern Cross Austereo executive Linda Wayman, was reacted to with immediate controversy. As parental rights at work are currently a hot topic in Industrial Relations and HR circles (our own firm publishing this update just last week), I have to admit being more amused by her comments than…
Internships – are they legal?
When discussing Industrial relations, an issue that has often fallen through the cracks is that of internships. In many sought after and prestigious professions (including law – see my previous post on this here) it has become commonplace to expect prospective employees to give their time to employers without remuneration. Generally, other than in specific…
The Legal Education Shakedown – who is footing the bill?
As a legal practitioner, business owner and parent, I am often asked to comment on the current state of affairs regarding the interaction between the legal services industry and tertiary education. We are close to crisis point – and it is now widely recognized that there has been an oversupply of law graduates for a number of…
Domestic Violence Leave
Like many, I was very pleased to see Rosie Batty named as Australian of the Year for her work in raising awareness and promoting the prevention of domestic violence. There are many working tirelessly in this field, but in the context of her own personal tragedy Ms Batty’s work is particularly special. Few of us…
Customer Service – Exactly How much should employees have to take?
Emily Capewell became famous just before Christmas for a Facebook spat on the Sydney Morning Herald’s page directed at her Jetstar customers. A computer glitch had created numerous delays, and numerous complaints – prompting Ms Capewell to describe them as a ‘bunch of whingers’. The Sydney Morning Herald immediately jumped on it as yet another…