Melbourne. Retail worker lost her chance to pursue an unfair dismissal case after missing the deadline by four days. The Commission found no exceptional circumstances to extend time.
Where: Melbourne
Case name: Carrodus v The Trustee for Lord Business Trust [2025] FWC 2149
Date of decision: 23 July 2025
Link to full case: Click here to view decision
Who: Marianne Carrodus, long-term retail worker
What: Dismissed after extended sick leave. Filed unfair dismissal claim four days late.
Outcome: Commission dismissed her application. Found no exceptional circumstances to allow late filing.
Legal Principle/s:
• A time extension will only be granted in exceptional circumstances.
• Personal stress, family obligations and unfamiliarity with the process are not exceptional on their own.
• The Commission must consider all reasons for delay individually and collectively.
Commentary:
This case shows that the Commission takes deadlines seriously. Even if you have genuine personal circumstances preventing you from seeking advice and filing a claim, you must act quickly to protect your rights.
Leave a Reply