Hello!
I have been busy compiling your favourite workplace newsletter – a combination of things you need to know and things that will make you laugh out loud.
In this issue there’s a workplace trend, news snippets, cases and sage advice in the “Dear Jen” column.
And of course, I share my recommendations for your viewing pleasure.
I hope this newsletter brings you some wisdom and joy!
Cheers,
Jen
What trend am I seeing out there in the workplace world?
My overseas clients are expressing genuine disbelief about Australian labour laws. The complexity. The cost of doing business…and one client is seriously considering NOT doing business in Australia.
Take Out Point: We need a simpler system so employers can focus on growing their businesses.
Job of the Week: Editor in Chief US Vogue
The successful candidate will replace Anna Wintour who has held the role for 37 years. They will report to Wintour in her new role as Global Editorial Director of Vogue.
A thick skin and exceptional listening skills are essential.
Surprise Job Offer of The Week
A US track star suffered an unfortunate wardrobe malfunction at the end of a 400m hurdles event. Despite desperate attempts to protect his dignity, he committed to crossing the line, and his”manhood” fell out of his shorts. But…according to TMZ, in an unexpected turn of events, an underwear company has invited the runner to model their new “Magnum Pouch Ball Hammock” underwear.
And yes, he won the race.
See: Wardrobe Malfunction
Quitting Season Alert
Recruitment experts predict a spike in turnover before year-end as employees jump ship over disappointing pay reviews and cost of living pressures.
Take Out Point: Be proactive about retention. Explain ‘disappointing’ pay reviews before you find CVs on the printer.
See: [Behind a pay wall]: Why the second half of 2025 could be quitting season
Channel Your Team’s Potential
My friend Jaimee has swum the English Channel. Yes, the actual one. Between England and France.
She spent 2 years training for a 12.5 hour swim to raise $75,000 for Gotcha4Life.
So she can speak from experience about resilience, teamwork and success.
No corporate jargon, just one heck of a story, that will have you and your team on the edge of your seats.
Organise a boardroom lunch or teamwork session with a difference.
Contact Jaimee Rogers at jaimeerogerstv@gmail.com | 0402 301 985
Cases You Need to Know About
$100K Shock: When Your “Contractor” of 14 Years Is Really an Employee
In a recent case, the Federal Court found that an IT specialist was an employee, not a contractor. This meant that he was entitled to annual and personal leave and public holiday payments over a period of 14 years, plus an implied period of 3 months’ reasonable notice. The precise sum is still to be determined, but it will exceed $100,000. Penalties for breach of the Fair Work Act are yet to be considered.
Take Out Point: The employee/contractor distinction isn’t academic. Getting it wrong can be expensive.
See: Cropper v Energy Action (Australia) Pty Ltd (No 2) [2025] FCA 663]
Redundancy Payment Halved Over Refusal to Transfer to “Sh-thole”
The role of a warehouse manager with 18 years’ service was made redundant. He was offered redeployment at a facility 30 kilometres away. To compensate for the additional commuting time, he was offered a 10% salary increase and a car and petrol allowance. The employee declined the offer on the basis that the new location was a “sh-thole”.
The Fair Work Commission reduced the redundancy payment from 12 weeks to 6 weeks on the basis the employee had unreasonably declined the offer. The payment was not reduced to zero for a number of reasons including that his employer had not told him that refusing to transfer would put his redundancy payment at risk.
Take Out Point: In redundancy discussions, employees need to be told that refusing reasonable redeployment offers can reduce their redundancy payments.
See: Mcnaughtans Pty. Ltd. Trading AS Mcnaughtans v Terrance Pavitt [2025] FWC 1448 (28 May 2025)
Unlocking Leadership Potential
Behind every high-performing team is a leader who is continuously evolving.
Managers and leaders are expected to deliver results, inspire people and navigate complexity, often all at once. Sometimes, what’s needed isn’t more information but a space to think differently, explore new angles and gain clarity.
Leading HR Consultant Deborah Stonley works with leaders and managers who are ready to:
- Grow their leadership impact
- Navigate sensitive people dynamics
- Take the next step in their careers
- Think differently and explore new angles
Deborah offers individual programs that unlock potential, build confidence, and align personal growth with business outcomes.
Contact Deborah: deborah@jenniferbicknell.com.au | 0419 203 600
Or Jennifer Bicknell: jen@jenniferbicknell.com.au | 0411 275 920
Dear Jen,
I’m a graduate and have been in my job for 12 months.
I just had my pay review and got a measly 5% raise. I think I deserve at least 10%.
Should I tell my boss what I think of his insulting offer or just quit and find someone who values me?
Cheers,
Expectant Eddie
Dear Expectant Eddie,
Give. Me. Strength.
You “deserve” 10%? Based on what exactly? Your sparkling personality? Your ability to show up for 12 months?
You might have heard of AI. It doesn’t demand pay rises or take leave.
Google “AI replacing entry-level jobs”, let that sink in, and get back to work.
Cheers,
Jen
Podcasts
In “The Rest Is Entertainment” Richard Osman and Marina Hyde share insider knowledge on TV, movies, and pop culture. I would listen to this daily if these two didn’t actually have real jobs in TV, movies, and pop culture.
“The Fast and The Curious” satisfies my need for Formula 1 gossip now that I am a (self) F1 certified expert.
In “The Front Row” the Michael Cassel Group introduces the special people who bring musicals to life. Perfect for those of us who are “triple threats” (in our own minds).
On The Screen
What I Inhaled (On Disney+)
“The Bear” is back. Whilst season 3 was a little slow, our favourite fictional Chicago chef has got his groove back this season. The best ensemble cast on TV since “Succession”.
What I’m Watching (On Netflix)
The final season of my favourite French travel show has dropped. It still features a bunch of guys riding bikes. (Better them than me on all those hill climbs). Even if you watch “Tour de France: Unchained” for the scenery, as is the case with “Formula 1: Drive to Survive”, you’ll find yourself falling in love avec le sport.
What I’m Watching (On ABC iview)
I have no desire to own or renovate a historical home in a regional area. Despite this, I am obsessed by “Restoration Australia”. They’re up to season 7. How did I not know this? And where do they find these patient people? Easy, end-of-day watching.
