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Resolved complaint (242) about disability discrimination in employment

Learn how a complaint (242) about disability discrimination in employment was resolved through conciliation.

Disability rights Conciliation register entry 19 March 2026

Summary

  • Year: 2025
  • Relevant Act: Disability Discrimination Act
  • Grounds: Disability
  • Area(s): Employment
  • Settlement terms:
    • Apology - private
    • Compensation
    • Statement of service
  • Settlement amount: $15,000

About the complaint

The complainant said she developed a back injury as a result of being required to lift heavy furniture without assistance in her role as a cleaner with the respondent business. She alleged the business told her it could not afford to offer her more work after she disclosed her disability and intent to make a workers compensation claim.

The business claimed the decision to not offer the complainant work was based on operational requirements. The business said it was unaware of the complainant’s disability or claim for workers compensation at the time of the decision.

The complaint was resolved by conciliation with an agreement that the business pay the complainant $15,000 and provide her with a statement of service. The business apologised to the complainant for the distress she experienced as a result of the end of the working arrangement.

Guidance on the use of these summaries

This is a summary of a selected complaint that has been resolved through our conciliation process. It's designed to help people better understand how complaints might be resolved and what outcomes are possible.

These summaries are for general guidance only and are not legal advice. If you need advice about your situation, you should seek independent legal support.

Please note:

  • all complaints are de-identified
  • complaints are resolved on a 'without admission of liability' basis
  • some content may include confronting or offensive language.

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