'Formally requesting' a transition isn't the same as quitting, the FWC reminds employers
A Tasmanian disability support worker who floated a flexible work proposal found herself locked out of systems and stripped of shifts within days.
The Fair Work Commission handed down its decision on 8 May 2026, finding that Danni-Elle Palmer was unfairly dismissed by Inspire Support Services Tas Pty Ltd after her employer treated an exploratory email as a resignation she never made. Commissioner Redford ordered the company to pay compensation, even though the employer never showed up to defend itself.
The story begins in late January 2026. Palmer, who had worked for the Tasmanian disability support provider since August 2024 (first as a casual disability support worker and then as a permanent administration and rostering officer from February 2025), sent her director, Leanne Pearton, an email raising concerns about the business and proposing a new arrangement. She wanted to transition out of her permanent role and support some of the company's clients independently, while remaining available for casual shifts. Her words, quoted in the decision, were measured, "I am formally requesting to transition to supporting these participants independently, should they choose to do so, so their supports can continue smoothly and without disruption."
She asked for a written response within seven days. When none came, she sent a follow-up on 1 February 2026 saying she would take the silence as...
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