The Guardian 14 June, 2006
Grandmother fights fabrication company
Unionists and supporters are targeting a Melbourne factory that dumped a 60-year-old grandmother because she was a "liability". Greer Industries used sack-at-will provisions in WorkChoices to show Karen Palmer the door.
The company, which employs less than 100 people, is allowed to unjustifiably sack staff under Workplace Relations Minister Kevin Andrews’ legislation.
However, the Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union (AMWU) is promising to hold it to account through court action that will argue Palmer has been the victim of age discrimination.
"Karen had a spotless record. She had worked there for 14 years without a warning or any other disciplinary action", union organiser Tony Mavromatis explained.
"She had just overcome a shoulder injury, sustained at work, to get back on the job as soon as possible. They told her, and me, she was a liability but have refused to state reasons for her dismissal in writing.
"This is a classic case of a small employer using the new laws to get rid of a person because of her age."
AMWU members protested outside the Coolaroo wire and tube fabrication plant last week. Mavromatis said Palmer was standing up to the ordeal well with the support of family and friends.
"Karen’s a strong person. She was shocked by her treatment and she is determined to fight back", he said.