WADE BIRCH SUES RQ FOR UNFAIR DISMISSAL

By Graham Potter | Thursday, January 7, 2016

Wade Birch, who was sacked from his position as Chief Integrity Officer at Racing Queensland in the wake of the live baiting scandal, is suing Racing Queensland for unfair dismissal.

In papers before the court Birch further claims that his reputation has been ruined.

The claim, filed by Miller Sockhill lawyers, reportedly states, “As a result of the manner in which he was treated during the latter parts of his employment and the manner of his dismissal the plaintiff has been medically certified as being unfit to continue his usual occupation.

“The plaintiff’s reputation has been adversely affected so that it is unlikely he will be able to find alternative employment within the racing industry.”

The claim reportedly seeks damages for breach of contract, equitable compensation, and $258,000 for lost wages, superannuation, long service leave and failure to make good on a promised redundancy package on the alleged basis that Birch was fired for alleged misconduct with no warning and despite not having committed any wrongdoing.

The claim also states that, “The decision to summarily dismiss the plaintiff without notice was harsh, oppressive and unconscionable.”

This lawsuit comes at a time when the cash-strapped Racing Queensland can ill afford to spend a vast amount of money on litigation and simply adds another twist to its on-going fight to balance its financial ship in stormy seas.

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