NSW: Company discriminated against pregnant employee, says court

AAP General News (Australia)
12-15-2003
NSW: Company discriminated against pregnant employee, says court

A Sydney mother has won a compensation payout after her new job was downgraded to a
temporary position within days of her announcing her pregnancy at work.

REBECCA KELLY has won $7,500 in compensation after suing her employer for sexual discrimination.

Ms KELLY, aged 28, had worked for internet service provider TPG Internet for two years
when she was promoted to the permanent position of Customer Services and Billing Manager
in mid-2001.

During salary negotiations she told her manager she was pregnant.

A few days later, Ms KELLY's position was changed to a temporary job, but was filled
on a permanent basis when she took maternity leave.

Ms KELLY also claimed the company discriminated against her by not allowing her to
return to work part-time after the birth of her daughter.

In the Federal Magistrates Court, Magistrate KENNETH RAPHAEL has ruled that TPG Internet
unlawfully discriminated against Ms KELLY because she was pregnant.

He's awarded her $7,500 in damages for hurt and humiliation.

AAP RTV ka/sd/jas/rp

KEYWORD: KELLY (SYDNEY)

2003 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.