More toxic workplace claims may face Super Retail Group Ltd with up to 10 whistleblowers potentially having a case against the group — the operator of Supercheap Auto, Rebel, Macpac and BCF. This adds to the 21 witnesses who are prepared to testify.
The revelations come after Justice Michael Lee rejected settlement claims by the two known whistleblowers, former chief legal officer Rebecca Farrell and former co-company secretary Amelia Berczelly.
Justice Lee’s partially redacted ruling disclosed extensive negotiations, including offers of financial benefits to resolve allegations of workplace bullying, excessive workloads and claims of a toxic environment.
Settlement terms reportedly included 12 months of gardening leave, backpay, bonuses and mental health support. However, the talks collapsed in May, leading to the dismissal of Farrell and Berczelly and the continuation of legal proceedings.
More employees could have cases
Justice Lee's ruling also suggested the workplace concerns were wider-reaching, indicating there may be other employees that have "potential cases" against Super Retail.
Lawyers for Farrell and Berczelly, Harmers Workplace Lawyers, indicated five to 10 more employees could have potential cases. Super Retail sought assurances Harmers would not represent these individuals if a settlement was reached.
In April, Super Retail disclosed to the ASX that possible whistleblower lawsuits could cost between A$30 million and A$50 million. Super Retail denies the allegations, including claims of an affair involving CEO Anthony Heraghty and former HR head Jane Kelly.
The trial regarding the toxic workplace allegations is scheduled for mid-2025 and is expected to span six weeks.