Unfair dismissal
Advice on whether you have a claim and lodging it within the strict 21-day window, or, for employers, responding to one.
Employment Law
Workplace problems run on tight deadlines.
Whether you've been dismissed unfairly or you're an employer trying to do things right, we give clear, practical advice on your rights and obligations, and move quickly when the clock is running.
Book a consultation
Google Reviews 5.0
In employment law, waiting is the costly mistake
Employment problems have a way of feeling both urgent and confusing: you know something isn’t right, but not exactly what your rights are or what you’re supposed to do about it. And in this area, hesitation is expensive: many of the protections that matter most are governed by strict deadlines.
An unfair dismissal claim, for instance, must reach the Fair Work Commission within 21 days of the dismissal taking effect: miss it and the Commission will only extend time in exceptional cases. Employers face the mirror image: a dismissal handled without the right process, notice or grounds can turn into a claim that costs far more than getting it right would have.
We act for both employees and employers, which means we understand how each side thinks. For employees, we tell you whether you have a case and act before the deadline closes. For employers, we keep your contracts, policies and decisions on the right side of the line, so your workplace runs without inheriting avoidable risk.
What's included
For employees and employers alike
We advise both sides of the employment relationship across the issues that most often arise.
General protections & adverse action
Claims involving workplace rights, discrimination and adverse action, for both employees and employers.
Employment contracts & agreements
Drafting and reviewing contracts so terms, entitlements and restraints are clear and enforceable.
Entitlements & the NES
Advice on minimum entitlements under the National Employment Standards, awards and registered agreements.
Workplace policies & compliance
Helping employers put compliant policies and processes in place before problems arise.
Workplace disputes
Resolving disputes over conduct, performance, redundancy and termination, practically and at the right level.
Why Vanguard
Legal advice that feels
empowering, not overwhelming.
We pair expert legal knowledge with practical strategy to resolve your challenges efficiently, and keep you informed and supported at every step.
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Genuine expertise
Highly qualified across commercial, property, family, criminal, employment and estate law, so your matter is handled by people who do this every day.
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Honest, jargon-free advice
Transparent communication and clear guidance. You'll always know where you stand, what it costs, and what happens next.
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On your terms
Flexible consultations: in person at Bankstown, by phone or by video. Legal help that fits around your life, not the other way around.
Dismissed, or managing a workplace issue?
The clock may already be running. Book a consultation for clear advice on where you stand and what to do next.
Mervat Sayed
Principal Solicitor & Founder
Mervat brings a grounded, people-first approach to legal practice, combining technical expertise with a genuine commitment to accessible, empowering advice. She has worked across commercial and property, family law, wills and estates, criminal law and litigation, and is known for clear communication and client empathy.
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- Bachelor of Social Science (Peace & Development)
- Admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW
How it works
Getting started is straightforward.
- 01
Book your consultation
Book online in under a minute or call us directly. We'll find a time that suits: in person, by phone or video.
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Get a tailored strategy
We listen, cut the jargon, and give you a clear, personalised plan built around your goals and your situation.
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Move forward with confidence
We act decisively to resolve your matter, keeping you informed and supported at every step.
Employment Law FAQs
Employment Law questions, answered.
Can't find what you're looking for? Call us on (02) 8766 2575. We're happy to help.
How long do I have to make an unfair dismissal claim?
An unfair dismissal application must reach the Fair Work Commission within 21 days after the dismissal takes effect. The Commission extends this time only in exceptional circumstances. The 21-day limit is strict, so act quickly. Our Employment Law team prepares and lodges the application.
Who can claim unfair dismissal in Australia?
An employee can claim unfair dismissal after 6 months of employment, or 12 months with a small business of fewer than 15 staff. Employees earning above the high income threshold of $183,100 are excluded unless a modern award covers them.
What are my minimum entitlements as an employee?
The National Employment Standards set 11 minimum entitlements for employees, including a maximum of 38 ordinary hours, paid annual leave, personal leave, and notice of termination. Awards and registered agreements add further pay and conditions. Employers structuring a workforce should also review their Commercial Law obligations.
Can an employer dismiss me without notice?
An employer can dismiss without notice only for serious misconduct, such as theft, fraud, or violence. Every other dismissal requires written notice of 1 to 5 weeks based on length of service, plus an extra week for employees over 45. Book a consultation if your dismissal felt unfair.
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5 out of 5 stars. Review by Catherine Shemon on Google.
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I'm beyond grateful for the expertise Mervat showed in handling my legal matter, along with the genuine care provided throughout the entire process. I couldn't be more pleased with the outcome — I couldn't recommend anyone more highly!
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I had a great experience working with Vanguard Lawyers for the settlement of my property. They were professional, responsive, and kept me informed throughout the entire process, making everything smooth and stress-free. Highly recommend their services.
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From our very first conversation, Mervat was professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared about my situation. Thanks to her dedication and strategic approach, we achieved a successful outcome. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a trustworthy and results-driven legal professional.
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We are extremely grateful for the outstanding service you provided while helping us purchase our unit. From start to finish, your expert guidance kept us informed and confident, while your professionalism and genuine support made what could have been a stressful process remarkably smooth.
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I had the pleasure of working with Mervat recently and couldn't be more impressed. She explained everything clearly, kept me informed throughout the process, and handled my matter with confidence and care. Her attention to detail and calm approach made a stressful situation much easier to deal with.
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Mervat was professional, supportive, and highly knowledgeable. She worked hard to achieve the best outcome for us. I highly recommend her and the team at Vanguard Lawyers.
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I highly recommend Mervat. She is a passionate, caring and experienced lawyer. Mervat has done some great work for my family and I, and I can't recommend her enough.
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Mervat was fantastic in all my dealings with her. She is a fantastic and knowledgeable lawyer and I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone!
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Mervat is an outstanding lawyer. Her knowledge and expertise is an absolute weapon in any legal battle. Thoroughly impressed.
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Dan Mikati on Google.
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Thank you Mervat for assistance with my matter — couldn't have asked for a better lawyer to protect my interests!
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Your professionalism, expertise, and prompt communication made a typically stressful process incredibly smooth and straightforward. I especially appreciate Mervat Sayed for patiently explaining the contract terms whenever we had difficulty understanding, and for being available on the phone to clarify any doubts.
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Professional and easy to deal with. They explained everything clearly and handled my matter so well. I felt confident throughout the process — highly recommend!
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As a first home buyer, I was pretty nervous about the whole settlement process, but Vanguard Lawyers made it incredibly smooth and stress-free. Mervat explained everything clearly, kept me updated at every stage, and was always available to answer my questions. Highly recommend Vanguard Lawyers to anyone needing help with their property settlement!
5 out of 5 stars. Review by R S on Google.
Book a consultation
Book your Employment Law consultation.
Tell us what you need and we'll be in touch quickly with clear, honest advice and the next steps. No obligation.
- Call (02) 8766 2575
- Email info@vanguardlaw.com.au
- Visit Level 1, Suite 1/443 Chapel Rd, Bankstown NSW 2200
- Hours Monday–Friday, 9:00am–5:00pm