How AI is helping workers take on their bosses in workplace disputes
Sydney Morning Herald
by Millie MuroiFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
An explosion in workplace disputes has been linked to the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), which is making it easier for employees to file claims against their employers, even when they have little chance of success. The Fair Work Commission (FWC) in Australia reported a significant increase in cases, with dismissal-related applications jumping 62% over six months and other contraventions leaping 135%. This surge has overwhelmed the commission, which saw its workload rise from around 30,000 cases annually before 2023 to an expected 55,000 in the current financial year—a 70% increase over three years.
The use of AI tools like ChatGPT has simplified the process of drafting legal complaints. For example, FWC President Justice Adam Hatcher tested the technology by providing basic details about a dismissal and received a completed application and witness statement within minutes. While the AI-generated case was based on invented facts, it appeared plausible enough to cause concern. This ease of access has led to a growing number of employees contesting dismissals, with 84% of cases involving such disputes in recent years.
The increase in workload has put significant strain on the commission’s staff and resources. Historically, dismissal-related cases tracked labor market conditions, but this correlation has broken down as AI-driven claims have flooded the system. Hatcher emphasized that the surge is primarily due to employees using AI tools to file weak or fact-invented cases, which are harder to filter out than traditional submissions.
This trend highlights a broader shift in how technology is influencing legal processes and workplace relations. While AI can raise awareness of workers' rights and improve access to justice, its misuse poses challenges for fair dispute resolution. The case load explosion underscores the need for updated regulations and better tools to assess the validity of claims while ensuring employees have meaningful recourse against unfair treatment.
The rise of AI in workplace disputes is reshaping legal systems globally, offering both opportunities and challenges. As more workers gain access to powerful AI tools, the balance between fair representation and accurate claims will be crucial for maintaining trust in legal institutions.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/20/2026