Can I just quit my job

Question

I have been working in my current job for 16 months now, I injured myself a few weeks ago and was put on work cover, once I returned to the job the company put me on the longest hardest days which I can still feel on my back and do not feel as though I can continue for much longer.

I rang up yesterday to give a weeks notice as I barely can cope. Only to be told that I must give four weeks notice and it must be written. I know in myself I would not be able to handle doing 4 more weeks.

What rights do I have can I just leave as my back is getting worse and worse or do I have to do the 4 weeks risking more permanent and serious damage

Answer 1

Hi -

I would definately contact workcover again as they are just setting you up for further injury.

I could be wrong, but it is not like they can leaglly force you to go to work for the next four weeks so if it comes down to your health or the job, get rid of the job.

Good luck. It sounds terrible.

Answer 2

You need to go back to work cover and report what has happened.  It sounds like the company is trying to ensure that they are not liable for any additional cost to your injury.

Do not risk your health, the labour laws are there to protect you.  You may want to go back on work cover until you completely recover.

Answer 3

you dont have to do the four weeks you could leave tomorrow if you wanted to plus i am pretty sure what they did when you returned to work was illegal

Answer 4

you can't leave your job just like that. instead explain to them and let them knwo your condition

Answer 5

Yes you can.

Go back at them, with the way they treat you, and see what they say. Plus if they are putting you at risk - Ring Work Place Standards - Even threaten to tell them to your employer - Shuts them up ;)

I don't think it is 4 weeks notice. With our workplace, we only give 4 weeks notice for a senior member - The staff we hirer must give up 2 weeks if they have been working for longer than 2 years.

If they give you the s**+ts babe, I will fly over and sort them out. ;)

Answer 6

contact workcover - it sounds as though your employer is being unreasonable and if so, you would have a case.

generally, you are required to give notice equal to your pay period - so if you are paid weekly, it should be weekly, but if you are paid monthly, a month's notice may be required.

regardless of that, if you have been injured at work - which must be the case if you have been on workcover - your employer is generally required to ensure your duties on return are suitable for your level of fitness.