Why taking a sickie today to enjoy the beach as a heatwave hits Australia is a bad idea - The Advertiser

By Alan J. McDonald

As a heat wave grips Australia, some employees are feigning illness to enjoy the weather out of their workplace. McDonald Murholme Managing Director Alan McDonald discusses the potential repercussions for those caught out misusing their sick leave.

See below article for further details.

Why taking a sickie today to enjoy the beach as a heatwave hits Australia is a bad idea

WORKERS thinking of chucking a sickie to enjoy the hotter weather at the beach are being warned it could cost them their job.

Those caught out can face being fired on the spot, according to employment law expert Alan McDonald.

“They will be accused of dishonesty and proven allegations of dishonesty can result in instant dismissal,” the McDonald Murholme managing director said.

“Social media is a very invasive modern phenomenon which means if you are seen on the beach with your friends having a great time you’ll have some explaining to do.”

He said allegations were very hard to challenge in any court or tribunal if there was social media evidence.
And even if they kept their job, it would be disruptive to production and embarrassing to be caught up in the drama.

In the past year, Australian employee absenteeism increased by 0.9 of a day from 8.6 days per employee per annum to 9.5 days per employee per annum, according to the 2016 Absence Management Survey Report by Direct Health Solutions.

The report found absenteeism was highest in the telecommunications sector (11.6 days), followed by the public sector (10.9 days) and transport and logistics (10.8 days).

Hender Consulting lead consultant Andrew Sullivan said taking illegitimate leave could be a career-limiting move.

“It can be tempting to put up photos or to check in on social media platforms (but) it’s definitely not a smart move if your co-workers or boss are your friend (or) connection,” he said.

“Just remember you may need them later in life to complete a reference check on you. You also need to think of the repercussions if you are caught out sunning yourself at the beach and question if it would really be that enjoyable having to look over your shoulder in case you are spotted.”

Reference: Why taking a sickie today to enjoy the beach as a heatwave hits Australia is a bad idea, The Advertiser, 14^th December 2016.