Why is Bradley Duff suing Commonwealth Bank?

Bradley Duff is suing Commonwealth Bank for unfair dismissal after being sacked for telling a colleague to 'calm the f*** down', alleging ignored workload complaints.

What were the allegations against Bradley Duff at Commonwealth Bank?

Bradley Duff was accused of standing over a colleague, raising his voice, and allegedly touching the same colleague on the shoulder, with his language including telling a colleague to 'calm the f*** down'.

Did Commonwealth Bank acknowledge Bradley Duff's workload concerns?

Commonwealth Bank denies failing to take action on Bradley Duff's staffing concerns, stating that four additional employees were recruited and disputing the extent of his workload issues.

Home / Business and Economy / Banker Sacked for Swearing Sues Commonwealth Bank

Banker Sacked for Swearing Sues Commonwealth Bank

29 Jan

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Summary

Former Commonwealth Bank employee sues for unfair dismissal after being sacked.
Employee claims excessive workload and ignored complaints led to outburst.
CBA denies claims, citing performance issues and team complaints.

Banker Sacked for Swearing Sues Commonwealth Bank

Bradley Duff, a former employee in Commonwealth Bank's major client group, has filed a lawsuit in the Federal Court of Australia seeking compensation for unfair dismissal. He was terminated on September 16 after his conduct was deemed a breach of the bank's code of conduct. Mr. Duff denies his actions, including telling a colleague to 'calm the f*** down' and alleged shoulder touching, constituted bullying or serious misconduct. He claims that his concerns regarding chronic under-resourcing and excessive workloads, raised with management in June 2025, were ignored.

The lawsuit asserts that swearing was commonplace within the bank, even among senior management, and that comparable conduct by others did not lead to disciplinary action, a claim the bank reportedly rejects. Commonwealth Bank, in its defense, has denied failing to address Mr. Duff's staffing concerns, noting that four new employees were recruited. The bank also raised doubts about Mr. Duff's performance, stating his portfolio's debt balance reduced in FY25 and he failed to meet key performance indicators. Complaints were also reportedly received from team members regarding his behavior and leadership style.