If you’re being treated unlawfully or discriminated against at work, you might be protected under what’s called a General Protections application. This is something you can lodge with the Fair Work Commission when you’re experiencing things like discrimination, sexual harassment, or being treated badly for simply standing up for your rights.
We know how overwhelming these situations can be — and we’re here to guide you through every step.
Under the Fair Work Act, you have what’s called a workplace right—and that simply means you’re allowed to speak up about things that affect you at work. This is called exercising workplace rights. Whether it’s asking why you weren’t paid correctly, checking on your leave entitlements, or raising a concern about something that doesn’t feel fair, you’re within your rights to do so.
You can also take part in workplace processes, like making a formal complaint. And here’s the important part: your employer can’t treat you badly because of it.
That means they can’t fire you, cut your hours, change your role unlawfully, or make things difficult for you just because you’ve spoken up or exercised your rights. If that’s happened to you, you're not alone—and you don’t have to put up with it.
We care and we’re here to help if you need advice or support.
If you’ve been let go or forced out of your job, you’ll need to lodge a Form F8 within 21 calendar days from your final day. With this application, you can ask for:
A correction to your employment record (for example, having it listed as a resignation instead of a dismissal)
Even if you’re still technically employed — whether you’re on leave or suspended — you can lodge a Form F8C. This helps you:
There are two key things that need to apply:
You’re protected from unlawful treatment based on things like:
Discrimination occurs when a person is treated less favourably than others due to a personal attribute. You don't need to suffer in silence. Stand up for yourself, your family and your community.
You have the right to:
Whether you're raising an issue with your boss or talking to the Fair Work Commission — these are your rights, and no one should punish you for using them.
You’re also protected if you:
The good news is that General Protections apply to more people than Unlawful Dismissal laws.
You don’t need to be permanent. You don’t need to have worked there for a long time.
You may be able to make a claim if you are:
Important: To lodge through the Fair Work Commission, your job must fall under the national workplace relations system. Some state government employees may not be covered — but this depends on your location. If you’re unsure, just give us a call and we’ll help you figure it out.
If you’ve been dismissed, you only have 21 calendar days to file your claim. That clock starts ticking from the day your dismissal takes effect.
If you’re still employed, you can apply anytime — but the sooner you get advice, the better your chances of a good outcome.
We are here for you 24/7
