‘Good reason’ why a sanction should not be applied



A sanction should not be applied if you can show that you had “good reason” for your action that led to a sanction being considered. Good reason is not defined in legislation, but will depend on your circumstances. Decision-makers should take into account factors including the following:



• if you are a victim of domestic violence, you can be treated as available for and actively seeking work for up to 13 weeks. Even after that 13-week period, a fear of domestic violence may mean you have good reason for refusing or leaving employment;



• if you have a physical or mental health condition or disorder, or if you are homeless; or



• if you are a victim of bullying or harassment at work, or you left your job because you were a whistleblower.