Losing your job is never easy. Whether it came as a complete shock or you saw it coming for months, being fired can leave you feeling vulnerable, stressed, and uncertain about your next steps. The good news is that you have rights, and knowing them is key to protecting your future.
This article explores what Australian employees need to know when facing dismissal, the most common types of unlawful terminations, and how an employment lawyer can be an essential ally in safeguarding your legal rights.
Understanding Unfair vs. Unlawful Dismissal
Being terminated from your job doesn’t always mean your employer acted illegally, but that doesn’t mean it was fair either. Understanding the distinction is vital:
- Unfair dismissal occurs when your termination was harsh, unjust, or unreasonable, or not conducted in accordance with proper procedure.
- Unlawful dismissal, on the other hand, happens when you’re fired for reasons that are prohibited under Australian law, such as discrimination, retaliation, or exercising a workplace right.
You can experience both types at once. For example, being fired in a discriminatory manner and without fair process.
Common Examples of Unlawful Termination
Here are some situations where dismissal may be unlawful:
- Being fired due to pregnancy or parental leave
- Termination based on age, race, gender, religion, or disability
- Dismissal for making a workplace complaint or asserting a legal right
- Being let go while on sick leave or after requesting flexible work arrangements
- Retaliation for whistleblowing or reporting misconduct
If any of the above sounds familiar, you may have strong grounds to challenge your dismissal with the help of a qualified employment lawyer.
Legal Protections for Australian Employees
Australia’s Fair Work Act 2009 provides a framework that protects employees from being unfairly or unlawfully dismissed. However, those protections depend on a few key factors:
- Length of service: You must usually be employed for at least six months (or 12 months for small businesses) to be eligible to file for unfair dismissal.
- Nature of employment: Casual employees may have limited rights unless they’ve worked regular hours for an extended period.
- Eligibility status: Contractors, freelancers, and gig workers may not be covered under traditional dismissal protections, although some may still have legal options under general protections claims.
The time limit to act is strict, generally only 21 days from the date of dismissal to lodge an unfair dismissal application with the Fair Work Commission.
What to Do Immediately After Being Fired
If you’ve been terminated and feel the decision was unfair or unlawful, here’s how you can take control of the situation:
1. Stay Calm and Document Everything
Don’t panic or react emotionally. Instead:
- Ask for your termination letter in writing.
- Request a reason for your dismissal. Your employer must provide one in writing if asked.
- Gather all emails, performance reviews, contracts, and any notes related to your dismissal.
- Make a timeline of events leading up to your termination.
2. Don’t Sign Anything Yet
Your employer may ask you to sign a separation agreement or release, but doing so could waive your right to future legal claims. It’s wise to consult an employment lawyer before signing anything.
3. Apply for Centrelink or Other Support
If you’re now without income, apply for financial support as soon as possible. You may be eligible for jobseeker payments or other benefits through Services Australia.
4. Explore Whether Legal Action Is Right for You
Each case is unique. An experienced professional can help determine whether you have a valid claim and what kind of remedy you may be entitled to.
When Is Dismissal Considered Fair?
Not all firings are unlawful or unfair. Australian employers have the right to terminate staff, provided they:
- Have a valid reason, such as serious misconduct, poor performance, or redundancy
- Follow fair procedure, including warnings, documentation, and an opportunity to respond
- Comply with all employment laws, including anti-discrimination and contract obligations
If your employer followed these steps, the dismissal may be considered lawful and fair. However, you should still double-check, especially if anything feels off.
How an Employment Lawyer Can Help
Navigating a dismissal situation can be emotionally and legally complex. That’s where an employment lawyer can help by offering clarity, advocacy, and practical support.
Here’s what they can do for you:
Assess Your Legal Position
They’ll evaluate the facts of your case and determine if your dismissal breaches any workplace laws or contractual obligations.
Represent You in Negotiations
An employment lawyer can:
- Negotiate a better exit package or redundancy payout
- Help you reach a fair settlement without going to court
- Draft or review documents to protect your interests
Lodge a Claim
If negotiation doesn’t resolve the issue, your lawyer can prepare and file:
- An unfair dismissal application to the Fair Work Commission
- A general protections claim if your workplace rights were breached
- A discrimination complaint through the Australian Human Rights Commission
They can also represent you at hearings or in court to ensure you’re not navigating the process alone.
Help You Move Forward
The goal isn’t just to win a case. It’s to help you recover, rebuild your professional confidence, and find future opportunities.
Signs You May Need Legal Help
You may want to speak to an employment lawyer if:
- You were dismissed without clear reasons or due process
- You believe your termination was linked to discrimination or retaliation
- You were asked to sign a document waiving your rights
- You’re unsure what compensation or options are available to you
- You want guidance before making a formal complaint
You don’t need to be in a courtroom to benefit from legal support. Even a one-off consultation can give you the clarity you need.
Potential Remedies if You’ve Been Wrongfully Dismissed
If your claim is successful, you could be entitled to:
- Compensation (usually capped at six months’ pay)
- Reinstatement to your old role (less common)
- Back pay and other entitlements
- A statement of service or positive reference as part of your settlement
Your employment lawyer will explain which outcomes are realistic based on your case.
What About Redundancy?
Redundancy is legal when the role is genuinely no longer required due to changes in the business. However, it must be:
- Real (not a disguise for firing someone)
- Fair (no discrimination or bias)
- Compliant with award or agreement requirements, including notice and redundancy pay
If your redundancy seems suspicious, for example if your duties were immediately reassigned to someone else, it may not be lawful.
Your Workplace Rights Matter
It’s easy to feel powerless after a sudden dismissal. But remember, your rights don’t end when your job does. You are entitled to be treated with fairness, dignity, and within the bounds of Australian employment law.
Don’t assume that just because you’re not a high-level executive, your rights don’t matter. Whether you’re a casual retail worker or a senior manager, workplace protections exist for everyone.
Prevention Is Better Than Cure: Know Your Rights in Advance
While this article focuses on what to do after being fired, understanding your rights before any conflict arises can protect you down the line. Here are some ways to protect yourself:
- Read your contract carefully when you start a job
- Keep written records of workplace issues or disputes
- Stay informed about your rights under the Fair Work Act
- Don’t be afraid to speak up if you’re treated unfairly. Early intervention often prevents bigger problems later
Final Thoughts
Getting fired can feel like the end of the world, but it’s often just the beginning of a new chapter. By understanding your legal options, staying calm, and reaching out for the right advice, you give yourself the best chance to land on your feet.
If you’re based in Western Australia and believe you were dismissed unfairly or unlawfully, are you looking for an employment lawyer Perth? It’s worth speaking to someone who understands the local landscape and can guide you forward with clarity and confidence.