UNLAWFUL REQUESTS FOR INFORMATION - CASE STUDIES

The following case studies are based on matters which have been received by the Anti-Discrimination Commission Queensland. They are provided as a guide to the range of outcomes which can be achieved, and kinds of issues raised.

Prospective employee asked age at interview

A man telephoned a prospective employer seeking a job which had been advertised. During an interview the man was asked his age. When he did not get the job he complained to the Commission that he was asked his age during the interview.

During an investigation it was discovered that the employer did not employ any person for the position as no person met the requirements for the job. The employer indicated that the question of age was one he asked all potential employees. It was noted that it was not necessary in this instance for the employer to know a potential employee’s age.

In conciliation the employer agreed to provide an apology to the complainant for asking unnecessary information. He also undertook not to ask for unnecessary information during future job selection and to adopt non-discriminatory job selection procedures. The Commission assisted the employer in developing these procedures. The complainant stated he was satisfied with this as an outcome of making the complaint.

This information is intended as a guide only. It is not a substitute for legal advice. For more information contact the Commission on 1300 130 670 statewide or Teletypewriter 1300 130 680 statewide.