Threatened with sack for not dobbing?
Is it legal for a manager to threaten staff with the sack if they do not report ("dob-in") staff who have been spreading rumours? (Australia)
Answers:
I don't think it would be legal ...
one thing to sack the one spreading rumours if they are caught, but it's a bit harsh to expect the staff to dob somebody in... PLUS they could end up with somebody dobbing in somebody they just didn't like to get them into trouble..
Infact .. it might pay you to check out worksafe and see the regulations against harassment and bullying .
EDIT: Loubie lou made a very valid point re Industrial spying .. if that is what the rumours are about.. it could cost the company mega $$'s and the boss may have a right to be a little heavy handed .. BUT again check it out,
don't think it's legal, but they could put you on suspension any way and I suppose it also depends on what kind of rumours were being spread, Industrial Espionage, sacked straight away, as breach of contract
Is it affecting the company or efficiency of the staff? Have you been listening to the rumor mongers? I would think it would be difficult to punish someone for not reporting others for something such as this. If you are busy performing well, you more than likely will have no time to bother with listening to office trash talk. And who is to say what is a rumor and what is casual conversation about what someone did over the weekend? Come on. As others suggested, I would tend to believe this only applies to those not reporting issues that will cause financial problems for the company.
No it is NOT legal! Maybe the Workplace Ombudsman could help you. They are working flat out at the moment because of Howard's "Work Choices" but it might be worth a try.
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