Melbourne. An IT worker applied 72 days late for unfair dismissal after his contract ended. He sought extra time due to family illness overseas but the Commission dismissed his claim.
Where: Melbourne
Case name: Kanwarjit Singh v People 2.0 Australia (Ess) Pty Ltd [2025] FWC 2374
Date of decision: 13 August 2025
Link to full case: Click here to view decision
Who: Kanwarjit Singh, IT contractor engaged through People 2.0 Australia to work with Telstra
What: Claimed unfair dismissal but lodged his application 72 days late after his contract ended
Outcome: The Fair Work Commission refused to extend time, finding no “exceptional circumstances” and dismissed the case
Legal Principle/s:
• The Commission will only extend time for unfair dismissal claims if there are “exceptional circumstances.” Personal hardship and waiting for internal processes did not meet this threshold.
Commentary:
This case highlights the strictness of the 21-day filing rule. Even compassionate reasons like illness or bereavement may not be enough. Workers must act quickly to protect their rights.