Trades Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Puppy Fence Incident: Tribunal Rules in Favor of Remote Worker

Puppy Fence Incident: Tribunal Rules in Favor of Remote Worker

Puppy Fence Incident: Tribunal Rules in Favor of Remote Worker?w=400

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

In a recent decision, a tribunal supported a workers' compensation claim by a council employee, Lauren Vercoe, following an unusual workplace incident.
Vercoe sustained an arm injury at home after tripping over a fence intended to keep a puppy away from her pet rabbit, sparking a debate over remote work safety obligations.

The incident occurred while Vercoe was working from her home office-a sunroom shared with her rabbit. The metal barrier, about 60cm high, was set up to separate the animals. On September 19, 2022, during a workday morning, Vercoe's foot caught on the fence while heading to her kitchen to prepare a coffee, resulting in a fall that sent her to the Royal Adelaide Hospital.

Initially, her claim was rejected by the Local Government Association Workers' Compensation Scheme, questioning whether her job significantly contributed to the injury. However, the South Australian Employment Tribunal later ruled in Vercoe's favor. According to auxiliary deputy president Jodie Carrel, the situation fell within employment-related activities, referencing the council’s endorsement of short breaks for remote employees.

Presiding over the case, Carrel emphasized that taking coffee breaks is an ordinary and expected activity for employees, remarking, "Taking a coffee break is a likely act of an employee during the course of their working day." She noted that any intent Vercoe might have had to check on the puppy did not alter the compensable nature of the coffee break.

Moreover, Carrel criticized the employer for not fully ensuring the safety of Vercoe's home workspace, aside from a checklist, stating, "effectively abrogated its responsibilities" in safety oversight. While the council was unaware of the puppy fence setup, this did not disqualify the workers' compensation claim, because the legislation does not operate on fault.

Although the case highlighted a fracture in Vercoe's arm, the extent of her knee injury, which had prior ailments, was less clear-cut and remains contested. Her legal representation dismissed accusations of exaggeration, adding that she had returned to full duties fairly swiftly and actively worked to resume her routine.

The tribunal recognized that the knee was indeed injured but was cautious concerning the duration of any temporary impairment, which was noted not to extend past September 29, 2022.

The case underlines the nuanced challenges as more people work from home, blurring the lines between home environments and workplace regulations. Such incidents stress the need for evolving safety protocols in remote work settings to adequately protect employees under similar home-working conditions.

The original coverage of the situation was reported by Insurance News Magazine, spotlighting the legal implications of remote work safety and accident liability.

Published:Thursday, 31st Oct 2024
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Navigating Rising Premiums and Cybersecurity Challenges in Australia's Insurance Sector
Navigating Rising Premiums and Cybersecurity Challenges in Australia's Insurance Sector
07 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
As 2026 unfolds, Australian insurers are grappling with significant challenges that threaten both their operational stability and the affordability of coverage for policyholders. Key among these are the escalating costs of premiums and the persistent threat of cyber incidents. - read more
Bridging the Gap: Enhancing AI and Cyber Risk Preparedness in Australia's Insurance Industry
Bridging the Gap: Enhancing AI and Cyber Risk Preparedness in Australia's Insurance Industry
07 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent studies have revealed that Australian insurers are trailing their global counterparts in preparedness for artificial intelligence (AI) and cyber risks. This lag poses significant challenges to the industry's resilience and competitiveness. - read more
The Financial Toll of Climate Change on Australian Properties and Insurance
The Financial Toll of Climate Change on Australian Properties and Insurance
07 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Climate change is exerting a profound impact on Australia's property market and insurance industry. Recent data indicates that increased flood risks have led to a substantial devaluation of properties in vulnerable areas, with some regions experiencing value declines of up to 10%. - read more
ASIC Takes Legal Action Against Budget Direct for Misleading Discounts
ASIC Takes Legal Action Against Budget Direct for Misleading Discounts
30 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has initiated legal proceedings against Auto & General, the parent company of Budget Direct, alleging that the insurer engaged in misleading advertising practices concerning policy discounts. This action underscores the regulator's commitment to ensuring transparency and fairness within the Australian insurance industry. - read more
EML Group's Strategic Acquisition of Guild Insurance
EML Group's Strategic Acquisition of Guild Insurance
30 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
In a significant move within the Australian insurance sector, EML Group has acquired a majority stake in Guild Insurance. This strategic partnership is designed to unlock growth opportunities and accelerate the development of technology and artificial intelligence within the insurance landscape. - read more
Click for more Insurance News


Trades Insurance Articles

5 Common Budgeting Mistakes Small Trade Businesses Should Avoid
5 Common Budgeting Mistakes Small Trade Businesses Should Avoid
Budgeting is one of the most crucial aspects of running a small trade business. Without a proper budget, it's easy to lose track of your expenses and revenues, leaving you in a financial mess. This can be especially challenging for small trade businesses where margins are often tight, and a minor miscalculation can lead to significant issues down the line. - read more
A Beginner’s Guide to Trades Insurance in Australia
A Beginner’s Guide to Trades Insurance in Australia
Trades insurance is a type of coverage specifically designed to protect those who work in various trades, such as electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and builders. It encompasses a range of insurance products tailored to address the unique risks and challenges faced by tradespeople in their day-to-day activities. - read more
How to Choose the Best Commercial Vehicle Insurance for Your Trade Business
How to Choose the Best Commercial Vehicle Insurance for Your Trade Business
For tradespeople, protecting your tools and equipment is crucial. These are not just tools; they are the backbone of your business. Without them, you can't complete jobs, meet client expectations, or generate income. This includes your Vehicle. - read more
Creating a Monthly Budget Plan for Small Australian Trade Businesses
Creating a Monthly Budget Plan for Small Australian Trade Businesses
Creating a monthly budget is essential for any business, but it holds particular importance for small trade businesses in Australia. Effective budgeting can help you manage cash flow, allocate resources efficiently, and ensure financial stability. - read more
Understanding Professional Indemnity Insurance for Trades
Understanding Professional Indemnity Insurance for Trades
Professional indemnity insurance (PI insurance) is a type of coverage designed to protect businesses and individuals who provide professional advice or services. It covers claims made against them for negligent acts, errors, or omissions in the performance of their professional duties. - read more

Knowledgebase
Coinsurance:
A percentage of the cost of a covered healthcare service that you pay after you have paid your deductible.

Quick Links: | Trades Insurance Australia | Public Liability Insurance For Tradies | Tools Of Trade Insurance | Workshop Contents Insurance | Commercial Motor Insurance For Tradesmen | Income Protection For Tradies | Business Insurance For Tradespeople | Contractors Insurance Australia | Self-employed Trades Insurance | Tradie Insurance Packages | Trade Business Insurance
This website is owned and operated by Clark Family Pty Ltd (ACN 010 281 008) as Trustee for the Clark Family Trust (ABN 35 957 893 714), 43 Larch Street Tallebudgera QLD 4228. Clark Family Pty Ltd is an Authorised Representative (AR 1298860) of Unique Group Broker Services Pty Ltd (AFSL 509434) for financial product referrals and an Authorised Credit Representative (ACR 401491) of Saccasan Pty Ltd (ACL 386297). Check our licensing details on the ASIC registers: Clark Family Pty Ltd ACR, Clark Family Pty Ltd AR, Saccasan Pty Ltd, Unique Group Broker Services.
IMPORTANT: We act solely as an introducer and refer enquiries to licensed third-party brokers, insurers, and lenders. We do not provide financial product advice or credit assistance. We may receive a fee or commission from these third parties in consideration for the referral. Before any action is taken to obtain a product or service referred to by this website, advice should be obtained (from either the third party to whom we refer you or from another qualified intermediary) as to the appropriateness of obtaining those products having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. Whilst we have our own process for validating the legitimacy of our referral partners, you should independently verify the credentials and licensing of any adviser or provider you engage. Visit the ASIC website for further information.