LRD guides and handbook May 2017

Law at Work 2017

Chapter 13

Improper behaviour 



[ch 13: page 512]

Examples of improper behaviour under the Code include:



• harassment, bullying, threats, intimidation;



• discrimination and victimisation;



• putting undue pressure on an employee to accept the terms offered, for example:



◊ not allowing a reasonable time (usually 10 calendar days) to consider the offer and get independent legal advice;



◊ saying at the start of negotiations that if the settlement proposal is rejected the employee will be dismissed;



• by the employee, for example, threatening to undermine the employer’s reputation.



Improper behaviour does not include a party setting out in a “neutral manner” the reasons behind the proposed settlement agreement, or factually stating what is likely to happen if no settlement is achieved, including the possibility of starting a disciplinary process.