Why It's Worth Standing Up: Holding Employers Accountable

For many employees, the moment you’re dismissed — whether it’s through a blunt email, a rushed meeting, or no real explanation at all — you’re left with questions, frustration, and often a feeling of powerlessness.

But the truth is, you don’t have to walk away in silence.

The unfair dismissal process through the Fair Work Commission exists not just to help you, but to ensure that employers across Australia are held to a standard. Filing a claim isn’t just about getting compensation or having your say. It’s about making sure your employer doesn't get away with poor practices — and that other employees don't go through the same thing.

Here’s why the process is worth it.

You're Calling Out Deficient and Unlawful Practices

When a dismissal is harsh, unjust or unreasonable, it often happens because the employer has failed to follow basic fairness: no valid reason, no proper warning, no opportunity to respond, no procedural steps at all.

If no one challenges that behaviour, it continues. People are treated like they're disposable — shuffled out without due process.

By lodging a claim, you send a clear message: That’s not acceptable.

It forces the employer to justify their actions. It brings their processes — or lack thereof — into the light. And even if you settle the matter privately, you’ve already changed the dynamic. You’ve made it clear that employees have rights, and that those rights must be respected.

You Help Shape Better Workplaces for Others

Every time a dismissal is challenged, it creates pressure for change — even if it’s behind closed doors. Employers don’t want to face repeated claims. Once they've been through the Commission process, they’re more likely to:

• Introduce proper performance management policies

• Provide written warnings and clear expectations

• Offer support or improvement plans before termination

• Allow a support person during disciplinary meetings

• Avoid knee-jerk sackings out of convenience or frustration

All of that makes for better workplaces, not just for you, but for those who come after you.

It’s About Justice — Not Just Compensation

Many employees say they don’t want to "cause trouble" or "make a scene." But standing up for yourself doesn’t make you difficult. It makes you empowered.

You’re not just chasing money — you’re holding someone accountable. You’re demanding fairness. You’re affirming that dignity, respect and process matter — especially when it comes to something as serious as losing your job.

That’s worth something, even beyond what you might get in a settlement.

You Don’t Have to Go It Alone

The process might sound intimidating — but it’s more accessible than most people realise.

• You don’t need a lawyer to file a claim

• You can be represented by a support person or a workplace specialist (like us)

• The Commission helps facilitate early conciliation

• The majority of claims are resolved without ever going to a hearing

Even a Small Win Can Be a Big Victory

The Commission can award compensation or, in some cases, recommend reinstatement. But even outcomes that don’t involve huge sums of money can validate your experience, offer closure, and show your employer that you weren’t someone who could be dismissed without consequence.

Sometimes the win is not just in the outcome — but in the act of standing up and asserting your worth.

Final Thoughts

When employers cut corners, sideline procedure, or show blatant disregard for fairness, they rely on one thing: that no one will challenge them.

The unfair dismissal system is there to level the playing field — to make sure power doesn’t mean impunity. And when you take that first step, you’re not just protecting yourself. You’re sending a signal to your employer and the wider industry: that fairness, dignity and accountability still matter in Australian workplaces.

At Workplace Justice, we help employees challenge unfair dismissals every day. We’ll walk you through your rights, handle the heavy lifting, and fight to make sure your voice is heard — because you deserve better, and your former employer deserves to be held to account.