Fair Work compensation ruling after workplace Facebook argument

Reported in smartcompany.com.au, businesses have once again been warned to ensure their employees know social media sites can serve as an extension of the workplace, following a Fair Work Commission case involving an employee who made offensive remarks against a colleague on Facebook.

The FWC has now awarded Gloria Bowden $7,500 in compensation after she was unfairly dismissed by her employer, the retirement village group Ottrey Lodge.

“Even though the employer doesn’t have control over what happens on social media, such as Facebook,” says industrial relations lawyer and expert Peter Vitale, “they do have a responsibility to point out those communications can be taken into account.”

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