Commentary: Do we need a law to remind us of basic workplace decency?

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Commentary: Do we need a law to remind us of basic workplace decency?
Office CultureDiscrimination
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While the Workplace Fairness legislation is a significant step forward in tackling discrimination, it is not without its limitations, says law lecturer Ben Chester Cheong.

Workplace Fairness legislation

As such, the legislation acts as a safeguard against the minority who may engage in discriminatory practices, sending a strong message that such behaviour will not be tolerated.So, what does the new law mean for you as a worker? Put together, all these will empower workers to report discrimination without fear of losing their job.John, a 55-year-old highly qualified professional, applies for a job at a company but is rejected in favour of a younger, less experienced candidate. Under the new law, John can file a complaint with the Tripartite Alliance for Fair & Progressive Employment Practices , which will investigate whether the company’s hiring decision was based on age discrimination.

A second Bill, which is expected to be introduced later in 2025, is expected to provide more clarity on redress mechanism, including compulsory mediation through the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management and the option to seek recourse through the Employment Claims Tribunal . While the Protection from Harassment Act offers some recourse for severe cases of harassment, there remains a gap in legal protections for workers experiencing more subtle or pervasive forms of bullying or toxicity in the workplace.The Workplace Fairness legislation is not a panacea for all forms of discrimination - neither should it be.

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