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An employee who had asked to reduce her hours while she attempted to manage some personal issues was not dismissed when she was subsequently left off the employer's roster, the Fair Work Commission has found.

The previously full-time barista and administrative assistant had worked at the Juno Eatery between May and late November last year, before emailing the company's manager to say she would no longer be available to work Saturdays, and would be willing to "go hourly" so that she could resolve some personal issues.

The manager agreed to her working hourly on a part-time basis and without any administrative duties, but refused the employee's further request, saying the business was not taking on more casuals. The manager said she would instead be offered a part-time contract, with the intention that she return to full-time work when ready...