Suncorp argue no legal obligation in Enterprise Agreement to provide a safe and healthy work environment

The FSU took Suncorp to Fair Work Australia (FWA) over whether staff can use the dispute procedure in the Suncorp Enterprise Agreement 2011 to resolve their bullying and harassment workplace issues.

In a great win for all Suncorp staff nationally, FWA agreed with the FSU's assessment that Suncorp under clause 23 of the Agreement have a legal obligation to provide a "safe and healthy work environment for employees".

How far will Suncorp go to avoid binding commitments to your health and safety?

Suncorp are now appealing the tribunal's decision and are arguing amongst other things that the Enterprise Agreement's health and safety clause is merely aspirational and does not give rise to a legal obligation. If Suncorp's argument succeeds, it would mean that any dispute under the Suncorp Agreement about occupational health and safety could not be taken to Fair Work Australia.

The FSU will return to FWA to try and stop Suncorp from eroding your legal right to a safe and healthy workplace.

The FSU helps protect the rights of insurance and finance workers across the industry. The more members we have, the stronger we are. Talk to your Suncorp colleagues about joining today.