2021-06-07

The complainant is Aboriginal and cares for three children. She has fibromyalgia, depression, anxiety, and experiences chronic pain. The complainant worked as a health practitioner with the respondent Aboriginal health service, the only one in the area. She alleged the health service initially rejected a medical certificate because she consulted a colleague at the health service, questioned her absenteeism, and declined a request to work part-time hours for one week to accommodate her caring responsibilities. She also alleged the health service required her to either access leave without pay or resign after she was convicted of unlawful wounding. 

The health service denied the allegations but indicated a willingness to participate in conciliation. 

The complaint was resolved with an agreement that the health service write to the complainant apologising for the hurt and distress she experienced as a result of the events giving rise to the complaint. The health service undertook to include an insert in its newsletter welcoming the complainant’s return to work. The parties agreed to engage in discussions to facilitate the complainant’s return to work. 

Apology - Private  

Employment - other (individual)