The Times Australia

5 Tips for Dealing with Wrongful Termination



Losing your job is stressful under any circumstances, but when you believe you’ve been unfairly dismissed, the experience can be particularly distressing. Wrongful termination occurs when an employer breaches employment laws or a contract when dismissing an employee. If you suspect your dismissal was unjust, it’s important to understand your rights and the steps you can take to protect yourself. Seeking advice from employment lawyers is often the first step towards resolving the situation and potentially securing compensation or reinstatement. Here are five tips for dealing with or launching a wrongful termination dispute.

Understand What Constitutes Wrongful Termination

Before taking action, it’s important to determine whether your dismissal was, in fact, wrongful. In Australia, wrongful termination typically refers to a breach of contract or unlawful dismissal under the Fair Work Act. This can include being fired due to discrimination, retaliation for whistleblowing or without the proper notice outlined in your employment contract.

Keep in mind that not all unfair dismissals are considered wrongful under the law. For instance, being let go due to poor performance or redundancy may be lawful if proper procedures are followed. Employment lawyers can help assess the circumstances of your dismissal and determine if your employer has acted unlawfully.

Gather Documentation & Evidence

If you believe you’ve been wrongfully terminated, start by collecting all relevant documents. This includes your employment contract, performance reviews, emails, text messages, payslips and any written communication relating to your dismissal. Detailed records can be invaluable when building your case. Write down a timeline of events leading up to your termination, noting any incidents that may support your claim, such as complaints made to HR, changes in treatment after raising concerns or discriminatory remarks. Employment lawyers will use this information to assess the strength of your case and guide you on the best course of action.

Seek Legal Advice Promptly

Time is critical when dealing with wrongful termination. In most cases, you have just 21 days from the date of dismissal to lodge an unfair dismissal claim with the Fair Work Commission. Consulting with experienced employment lawyers as soon as possible ensures you won’t miss this window. A lawyer can explain your options, including whether you may be entitled to compensation, reinstatement or other remedies. They can also represent you in negotiations or legal proceedings, giving you the best chance of a favourable outcome.

Consider Alternative Dispute Resolution

Litigation can be time-consuming and costly, so it’s worth exploring alternative methods of resolving your dispute. Mediation or conciliation through the Fair Work Commission allows both parties to discuss the issue with the help of an impartial facilitator. This process can often lead to a mutually agreeable resolution without the need for a formal hearing. Employment lawyers can assist you in preparing for mediation and ensure your interests are represented throughout the process.

Protect Your Future Employment Prospects

While it’s important to address a wrongful termination, it’s equally vital to think about your future. Avoid speaking negatively about your former employer publicly, as this could harm your professional reputation. Focus on finding new opportunities and consider how you can frame your departure in a professional and truthful way during interviews. If you’ve engaged employment lawyers, they may be able to negotiate a positive reference or a neutral statement of service as part of your settlement.

Final Thoughts

Being wrongfully dismissed is never easy, but understanding your rights and taking prompt, informed action can make a significant difference. With the support of skilled employment lawyers, you can navigate the process confidently and work towards a fair resolution.

Times Magazine

Headless CMS in Digital Twins and 3D Product Experiences

Image by freepik As the metaverse becomes more advanced and accessible, it's clear that multiple sectors will use digital twins and 3D product experiences to visualize, connect, and streamline efforts better. A digital twin is a virtual replica of ...

The Decline of Hyper-Casual: How Mid-Core Mobile Games Took Over in 2025

In recent years, the mobile gaming landscape has undergone a significant transformation, with mid-core mobile games emerging as the dominant force in app stores by 2025. This shift is underpinned by changing user habits and evolving monetization tr...

Understanding ITIL 4 and PRINCE2 Project Management Synergy

Key Highlights ITIL 4 focuses on IT service management, emphasising continual improvement and value creation through modern digital transformation approaches. PRINCE2 project management supports systematic planning and execution of projects wit...

What AI Adoption Means for the Future of Workplace Risk Management

Image by freepik As industrial operations become more complex and fast-paced, the risks faced by workers and employers alike continue to grow. Traditional safety models—reliant on manual oversight, reactive investigations, and standardised checklist...

From Beach Bops to Alpine Anthems: Your Sonos Survival Guide for a Long Weekend Escape

Alright, fellow adventurers and relaxation enthusiasts! So, you've packed your bags, charged your devices, and mentally prepared for that glorious King's Birthday long weekend. But hold on, are you really ready? Because a true long weekend warrior kn...

Effective Commercial Pest Control Solutions for a Safer Workplace

Keeping a workplace clean, safe, and free from pests is essential for maintaining productivity, protecting employee health, and upholding a company's reputation. Pests pose health risks, can cause structural damage, and can lead to serious legal an...

The Times Features

Tricia Paoluccio designer to the stars

The Case for Nuturing Creativity in the Classroom, and in our Lives I am an actress and an artist who has had the privilege of sharing my work across many countries, touring my ...

Duke of Dural to Get Rooftop Bar as New Owners Invest in Venue Upgrade

The Duke of Dural, in Sydney’s north-west, is set for a major uplift under new ownership, following its acquisition by hospitality group Good Beer Company this week. Led by resp...

Prefab’s Second Life: Why Australia’s Backyard Boom Needs a Circular Makeover

The humble granny flat is being reimagined not just as a fix for housing shortages, but as a cornerstone of circular, factory-built architecture. But are our systems ready to s...

Melbourne’s Burglary Boom: Break-Ins Surge Nearly 25%

Victorian homeowners are being warned to act now, as rising break-ins and falling arrest rates paint a worrying picture for suburban safety. Melbourne residents are facing an ...

Exploring the Curriculum at a Modern Junior School in Melbourne

Key Highlights The curriculum at junior schools emphasises whole-person development, catering to children’s physical, emotional, and intellectual needs. It ensures early year...

Distressed by all the bad news? Here’s how to stay informed but still look after yourself

If you’re feeling like the news is particularly bad at the moment, you’re not alone. But many of us can’t look away – and don’t want to. Engaging with news can help us make ...