Employee Dismissed After 114 Sick Days Due to Health Issues

Jodi Dauni, who worked for several years in customer service for Kelsian Group, the operator of Brisbane's CityCat ferries, was dismissed in July 2025 after taking 114 sick days within a 12-month period. Her health issues began in April 2024 when she developed deep vein thrombosis (DVT), leading to chronic pain and requiring surgery.

After being placed on a public hospital waitlist, her insurance provider declined coverage on April 6, 2025. Following a week in the hospital, Dauni returned to work but struggled to perform her duties.

A medical specialist later advised her to remain off work for three months. An independent medical examination became a point of dispute, with the Maritime Union of Australia arguing that the report indicated she could return to surgery.

Kelsian interpreted the report as showing she did not meet the essential requirements of her role. The Fair Work Commission, led by Chris Simpson, ruled that the medical report did not conclusively prove Dauni could resume full duties, and Kelsian's decision to terminate her employment was upheld.