Fair Work Commission rejects Tamworth teacher's unfair dismissal claim

The Fair Work Commission has dismissed an unfair dismissal claim brought by Reverend Samuel Anderson, a former head of middle school at Calrossy Anglican School in Tamworth. The claim was rejected because it was lodged 35 days after the dismissal, exceeding the legal 21-day deadline required under federal workplace laws.

Commissioner Sarah McKinnon ruled that Mr. Anderson failed to establish the “exceptional circumstances” necessary to grant an extension. The dispute originated from a child safety incident in March 2026. Following discussions with school principal Mark Lewis regarding a potential disciplinary show-cause process, Mr. Anderson resigned on April 30, 2026.