This week's top stories in brief

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Recent rulings and a lack of case law consensus show how difficult it can be to manage performance-related dismissals that also involve factors such as mental illness, says Clayton Utz senior associate Amanda Lyras. "It's common for cases involving mental illness and dismissals to turn on the medical evidence and whether the employer's actions are appropriate in light of that medical evidence."

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The shift to remote work occurred quickly and largely without consultation, but employers must ensure their return to workplaces factors in this important obligation, says Bartier Perry workplace law and culture practice head James Mattson, adding that the consultation obligation is a strict one under work health and safety laws.

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The ABC is backpaying $12 million plus a $600k contrition payment after underpaying nearly 2,000 employees. Also in this article, ACCC allegations against a workplace advisor; minimum wages rise; and more.

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Forward-thinking organisations are shifting HR functions away from their old "mental model" to instead view employees as customers, according to TQSolutions managing director, Gareth Flynn, and Google's Dart Lindsley.

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Coca-Cola Amatil's leaders have reached new levels of employee approval after communicating regularly, openly and vulnerably about how the crisis has affected them. Group director of people and culture Kate Mason says her team will continue this post-crisis.

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During a crisis, it's easy to get caught up in decision after decision, but referring back to organisational values has a grounding effect, say Coles Group chief people officer Kris Webb and Medibank chief people officer Kylie Bishop.

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