Issues to do with your employment and what happens at work can be legal problems, even when we don't think of them as legal.
Victorian Law Week is a time to learn what to do when the law meets your life, where to get help and find out more about the law.
See below for some common issues with work, relevant Victorian Law Week events, and where you can go for help.
All employees in Victoria have rights they’re entitled to every day at work. Every worker in Victoria has a right to the minimum rate of pay and regular payslips, an employment contract, superannuation and to work in an environment that is healthy and safe, free of bullying and discrimination.
Bullying is verbal, physical, social or psychological abuse. Bullying is only considered discrimination when someone treats you badly or unfairly because of your personal characteristics, such as age, gender, race or religion. You can read more about discrimination.
If you’re thinking of starting a small business or already have one running, it’s important to understand how the law interacts with your business. Accidentally breaching them could cost your business thousands of dollars and you may not be able to run it.
Common problem areas for small businesses can have a legal aspect. They can include incorrect tax declarations, dealing with unsatisfied customers, making sure you have the correct licenses, safeguarding your intellectual property, and making sure your employment practices are correct.
For young people, having your first job can be exciting! However, our research has found that young people (aged 18-24) experienced the highest rate of employment problems compared to other age groups. This is why it is important to understand what you’re entitled to, how you should be treated, and what to do if you experience problems.
The most common problem young people experienced in our research was mistreatment at work, such as bullying, harassment and victimisation.
Other common issues include not getting paid or receiving payslips, as well as problems with job security such as being sacked, made redundant or threatened with loss of employment.
If you or a person you know may be experiencing a legal problem to do with work, help is available. Getting started can be difficult, but here’s some small steps to begin.
The Australian Government has a dedicated website that offers information, grants, services and support for Australian businesses.
The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman provides legal advice and information, dispute resolution services and mental health support to small businesses.
JobWatch is an independent, not-for-profit employment rights community legal centre supporting workers with their rights.
WorkSafe Victoria is Victoria's workplace health and safety regulator. They aim to reduce workplace harm and improve outcomes for injured workers. If you have issues with workplace bullying, discrimination, or health and safety, WorkSafe Victoria is the best place to go for advice.
The Fair Work Ombudsman provides education, assistance and advice to employers and employees to resolve workplace issues and encourage effective workplace relations in Australia. If you think you’re not getting paid the right amount and have not resolved this with your employer, speak with the Fair Work Ombudsman.
You can find legal information and may be eligible for free legal advice from Victoria Legal Aid or from your local community legal centre
Otherwise, you can seek help from a private lawyer using the Find Your Lawyer Referral Service. All law firms included in the service provide a free 30-minute interview.
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