Bill sets out process for workers to file claims for discrimination

Adjudication last resort for disputes, with tribunals hearing claims of up to $250,000

- Tay Hong Yi Correspondent

Workers who face discrimination will soon have a clear process to seek redress under a new Bill introduced in Parliament on Oct 14.

The Workplace Fairness (Dispute Resolution) Bill is the second of two Bills that together form upcoming workplace fairness laws, bringing Singapore one step closer to rolling out the regime come 2027.

Under the latest Bill, a complainant should first raise the matter internally through the firm's grievance handling process. If the matter is not resolved within the firm and the person wishes to make a claim against the firm, parties should attempt mediation first before proceeding to adjudication.

Adjudication is the last resort for workplace discrimination disputes, similar to the existing process for disputes over salaries and alleged unfair dismissal.

Cases involving claims worth up to $250,000 will be heard by Employment Claims Tribunals (ECT), while those worth over $250,000 will be heard by the High Court.

This departs sharply from the ECT's claims threshold for both unfair dismissal and salary, which is either $20,000 or $30,000, depending on whether a union is representing the worker.

On Oct 14, National Trades Union Congress assistant secretary-general Patrick Tay said the $250,000 limit enables more workers, including professionals, managers and executives, to access the ECT.