On 5 September 2025, the Federal Court handed down a major ruling.

This case involved the alleged underpayment of employees by Woolworths Group Limited (Woolworths) and Coles Supermarkets Australia Pty Ltd (Coles), as claimed by the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO).

The decision has important lessons for all employers using annualised wages or set-off clauses. 

Several laws in Australia, including federal and state legislation, strongly prohibit sexual harassment in connection with work.

Over recent years, these laws have been tightening, with an increased focus on prevention.

Businesses are now expected to identify risks, take proactive measures, and update policies to address sexual and gender-based harassment, even before any incident is notified.