General Protections Claims

General protections claims arise where an employee or contractor alleges adverse action was taken for an unlawful reason, placing scrutiny on decisions that are often routine from an employer’s perspective. Clear legal advice helps employers understand risk and respond in a strategic and proportionate way.

We help:

  • Understand whether a claim raises general protections risk under Australian law
  • Assess how employment decisions may be viewed in light of protected attributes or activities
  • Respond to general protections claims with clarity and minimal disruption
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4.9
74 Google Reviews
Award Winning Law Firm – Top Specialist Firm & Top Boutique Firm (Australasian Lawyer)

First class advice, service, and communication. I have had the pleasure of working with Velocity Legal for many years across a range of challenging matters and they never fail to impress.

Grant F

Their meticulous attention to detail, unwavering professionalism and strategic approach have delivered an outstanding result. Their level of service is nothing short of impressive.

Jack C

From the initial consultation to the final resolution, they provided exceptional
service and achieved an outstanding result for our case.

Wan Li

We are an accounting firm that works closely with Velocity Legal on all our client's legal matters… Every client who works with their team is delighted and impressed by the clear advice, efficient communication, and seamless process.

Selina L

I highly recommend the team at Velocity Legal. They are extremely knowledgeable, professional, have an eye for detail and their work ethic is second to none.

Mark P

They provided so much support and guidance through the process and I felt like they genuinely cared about getting the right outcome for me. They obviously know their stuff but were able to explain things in a simple and clear way.

Natalie F

Approachable, honest, professional and transparent. An absolute pleasure to work with.

Bob W

4.9
74 Google Reviews
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We Understand What You Are Going Through

General protection claims often arise unexpectedly and can feel disproportionate to the decision that triggered them. You may have made a termination, disciplinary decision, or workplace change for legitimate reasons, only to face allegations that the action was unlawful.

These claims can be particularly challenging because they involve questions of motive, timing, and intent, rather than just process. Short timeframes and unfamiliar procedures can add pressure at an already sensitive point.

We understand the challenges employers face when dealing with general protections matters. We help you work through the issues in a calm and practical way, so decisions about how to respond are informed, strategic, and defensible.

Our Services Include

  • Advising employers on general protections risk before employment decisions are implemented
  • Assessing whether alleged conduct constitutes adverse action under the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth)
  • Preparing and lodging responses to general protections applications
  • Advising on jurisdictional and threshold issues
  • Representing employers in conciliation and Fair Work Commission proceedings
  • Advising and representing employers where general protection matters escalate beyond the Fair Work Commission
  • Supporting negotiated outcomes and settlement documentation where appropriate
Our Difference
Accountability & Expertise

Every matter we handle comes with full accountability. You’ll deal directly with an expert – every time, no exceptions.

In Your Shoes

Understanding your unique circumstances and goals - so our advice is practical, personal, and never given in a vacuum.

Transparency & Communication

We speak your language. That means plain, clear advice - what’s happening, why it matters, and what comes next.

50+
Australian Based Team
4,000+
Matters Expertly Handled
10+
Awards & Industry Recognition

Our Process

  1. Book Meeting
    Fill in contact form below or call our office to book an initial consult. You can choose between in-person or video conference.
  2. Get Advice

    You’ll discuss your situation in depth with a senior lawyer. This includes exploring your requirements, goals, and desired outcomes. You’ll walk away from this meeting with a clear understanding of the next steps.
  3. Achieve Outcomes

    Our legal team will work tirelessly to achieve your desired objectives. We work hard, communicate regularly, and pride ourselves on delivering results.
Contact
Take the First Step Today

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Book an initial consult with our expert legal team and get clear answers about your situation.

  • Transparent quotes (no ‘bill shock’)
  • Rapid response
  • Award winning team
Andrew Henshaw
Managing Director
Award Winning Law Firm – Top Specialist Firm & Top Boutique Firm (Australasian Lawyer)
Our Directors

Managing Director

Andrew Henshaw

Director

Greg Thomas

Director

Jess Hill

Director

Rajan Verma

Director

Seamus Ryan

Frequently Asked Questions
What is a general protections claim?
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A general protections claim alleges that adverse action was taken against an employee or contractor for an unlawful reason, such as exercising a workplace right, engaging in industrial activity, or having a protected attribute.
How is a general protections claim different from unfair dismissal?
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Unlike unfair dismissal claims, general protections claims focus on the reason for the action taken, rather than whether the dismissal was harsh, unjust, or unreasonable. These claims can arise even where an employee is not eligible to bring an unfair dismissal claim.
What is meant by “adverse action”?
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Adverse action can include dismissal, disciplinary action, altering a person’s position to their detriment, or treating someone unfavourably. Whether conduct amounts to adverse action depends on the circumstances.
Who can bring a general protections claim?
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General protections claims can be brought by employees, prospective employees, and in some cases contractors. Eligibility is broader than unfair dismissal, which is why these claims often arise unexpectedly.
Do general protections claims always proceed to court?
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No. Many general protections claims resolve at an early conciliation stage. However, some matters may proceed beyond the Fair Work Commission if they cannot be resolved.

Take the First
Step Today

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Book an initial consult with our expert legal team and get clear answers about your situation.

  • Transparent quotes (no ‘bill shock’)
  • Rapid response
  • Award winning team
Book Consult
4.9
74 Google Reviews
Award Winning Law Firm – Top Specialist Firm & Top Boutique Firm (Australasian Lawyer)