Case study 1: Valarie

Valarie is employed as a receptionist and has just recently converted to Judaism. Her new husband follows the Jewish faith and converting was something she felt was really important to her new relationship. Valarie has requested to leave work early on Friday afternoons to observe Sabbath. She has stated that she will ensure she will take responsibility to catch up with any missed work and time.

The company does not currently have flexible working arrangements.

Valarie has been employed with her company full time for three years.

What issues do you need to consider in response to this request?

Explain any two of the following.

1. Would a lack of flexibility in meeting this request constitute discrimination?
2. Could other arrangements be made to make up for the missed hours?
3. What do you feel the potential impact on other staff will be when they see the staff member leaving?
4. What are reasonable business grounds for refusing a request?

Question 2

What are the legal requirements?

Explain any one of the following

1. An employee is only entitled to make a request for flexible working arrangements if they have completed 12 months of continuous service.
2. Valarie does not fit into the one of the categories that can make a request (by law).
3. Reasonable business grounds may be made to refuse the request.

Source:https://www.fairwork.gov.au/how-we-will-help/templates-and-guides/fact-sheets/minimum-workplace-entitlements/requests-for-flexible-working-arrangements

Question 3

What might the benefits be to the business of approving this request?

Explain any two of the benefits

1. Positive workplace.
2. Improved morale, motivation and productivity.
3. Employer of choice.
4. Reduced turnover and absenteeism.