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Spreading "fear mongering rubbish" on social media and attending a large protest during COVID lockdowns last year made an employee's dismissal valid, but her "dire" financial circumstances at the time rendered it harsh.

On 24 July last year, the Department of Communities and Justice child protection caseworker attended the "World Freedom Rally" in Sydney, to voice concerns about the federal and state governments' "continued fear campaigns and threats" about COVID vaccinations and restrictions.

The employee – who had previously shared on social media "research studies" and "parliamentary posts" about adverse reactions to the vaccine – also posted videos and pictures of her attendance at the rally. As a result, she received abusive messages from friends and others, which she said had a psychological impact on her.

The employer subsequently accused the employee of misconduct in the form of attending the rally and for making "highly derogatory" Facebook posts...