Equal Opportunity and Anti-Discrimination in the Workplace

  • Overview and Examples
  • What You Need To Know
  • Specialising Lawyers
Make A Claim

Overview

Equal Opportunity and Anti-Discrimination in the Workplace

I need the support of an Equal Opportunity and Workplace Discrimination Lawyer in NSW

If you have experienced unfair treatment at work, you do not have to face it alone. Our team of anti-discrimination lawyers specialise in protecting your rights and holding all parties accountable, ensuring you receive the maximum settlement that you are eligible for.

Whether you have suffered on an ongoing or isolated basis while performing your professional responsibilities or even when pursuing a role, our employment discrimination solicitors offer client-focused, compassionate representation that promotes early resolution and protection from retaliation.

At Brydens Lawyers, we understand that defending your rights at work and against your employer can be overwhelming. Our over 50 years of experience safeguarding our clients’ best interests has given us the expertise to address unfair dismissal claims and equal opportunity rights in Australia without penalty to your livelihood and professional reputation. If you have been treated unjustly, do not hesitate to retain Brydens Lawyers’ anti-discrimination lawyers for expert advice.

Get started today — book a consultation online or call 1800 848 848 to organise a virtual or in-person meeting at your closest Brydens Lawyers office. We will ensure your natural rights are constantly observed and upheld.

Make A Claim

Examples

Laws protecting your equal opportunity rights in Australia generally apply when you:

  • Apply for a job, a licence or registration to perform a job.

  • Obtain or try to obtain goods or services from shops, banks or other providers.

  • Apply to get into or are studying in any educational institution.

  • Rent accommodation.

  • Try to enter or join a registered club.

What You Need To Know

Our Workplace Anti-Discrimination Lawyers Can Help You With:

  • Discrimination

  • Unfair dismissal

  • Adverse action

  • Workplace investigations

  • Performance management

  • Bullying and Harassment in the workplace

  • Reviewing or negotiating employment contracts

  • Reviewing or negotiating redundancy entitlements

  • Restrictive covenants arising from your employment

  • Recovery of unpaid or underpayment of wages or entitlements.

Contact us today to schedule a hassle-free consultation


Your Right to Work

Employees at all seniority levels and in all industries can experience unfair treatment at work through discrimination, harassment and bullying that compromises their safety, well-being and equal opportunity rights in Australia.

Whether you work full- or part-time, casually or on a contract basis, you are always protected by national and state laws that ensure you can participate in your company and the workforce free from recognised forms of discrimination and workplace harassment in NSW.

The Anti-Discrimination Board of NSW (ADNSW) is an independent statutory body that handles discrimination complaints under the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 (NSW). They administer state laws to ensure you are not treated less favourably because of a protected personal characteristic, including:

  • Sex (includes pregnancy and breastfeeding)

  • Race

  • Religion

  • Marital or domestic status

  • Sexual orientation

  • Age

  • Disability (includes diseases and illnesses)

  • Transgender status.

Make A Claim

Are You Eligible To Claim for Unfair Treatment at Work?

Anti-discrimination legislation exists because everyone deserves the same opportunities. If you feel you have been discriminated against based on your gender, race, or any other personal trait, then you may be able to make a claim.

You are eligible to make a claim:

1. If your employer (or someone who is specifically authorised to act on behalf of the employer, such as a manager or supervisor) acts in a discriminatory or harassing way, including sexual harassment.

2. If other employees behave in a discriminatory or harassing way, but the employer failed to take ‘all reasonable steps’ to prevent mistreatment from happening.

In NSW, people are protected by the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977. Similar laws exist under different names in other states, such as the Equal Opportunity Act.

Limiting equal employment opportunities for certain people can disadvantage employees in many different ways and may also have a significant impact on a person’s mental health. This is why it is so important to report incidents of discrimination, sexual harassment and victimisation in the workplace.


What Are You Able To Claim?  

The legal costs of running a tribunal or court case may vary, depending on many different factors. However, the compensation payable for discrimination or harassment complaints has an upper limit of $100,000 in NSW. There is no limit on the amount you can claim under federal legislation. Proving unfavourable treatment to the full extent of the law can be exceedingly challenging. To ensure you are awarded the maximum compensation you are eligible for, it is advisable to consult a workplace discrimination lawyer in NSW from Brydens Lawyers.


When Should You Consult a Workplace Discrimination Lawyer in NSW?

Complaints to ADNSW should be made within twelve months of the alleged discrimination. The President of ADNSW may accept complaints outside of these time limits if there is a satisfactory reason why they should do so. This means it is crucial for you to act quickly and consult Brydens Lawyers to discuss your case as soon as possible.


What Is Your Next Step? 

Non-discrimination law is an intrinsic element of the principle of equality. It ensures that no one is denied their rights due to personal traits and choices.

Make Brydens Lawyers your first point of call for support. With over 50 years of experience dealing with employment law, particularly anti-discrimination law, we can provide expert legal advice on employment discrimination to ensure you achieve your desired outcome. Our team will be by your side, navigating proceedings to ensure your voice is heard, and assisting with gathering evidence, so you can focus on what matters most, your family, lifestyle and career.


Why Are Brydens Lawyers The Right Representation For You?

Brydens Lawyers has extensive experience representing workers from a wide range of occupations and advocating for equal opportunity employment. We have a proven track record of providing straightforward, accurate advice and representation across all legal matters, including navigating workplace investigations, negotiating the terms of employment contracts, and recovering bonus payments.

Following an initial consultation, we can quickly determine the likelihood of success of your particular case, allowing you to either move on or pursue further action. With a comprehensive understanding of Australian employment laws, our employment lawyers can give you the best start to your claim. Contact the professionals at Brydens Lawyers today to discuss your case and find out how we can help you.

Testimonials

Omar Khan of Brydens Lawyers resolved everything quickly and looked out for my interests every step of the way. I’m very satisfied with how things played out and will definitely be contacting them if I need help again.

Paul M, a client of our Commercial division

I cannot say enough of my lawyers Omar- he listened and gave simple answers so I could understand. Most importantly, he showed empathy when I was distressed.

Lisa O, a client of our Commercial division

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