This article addresses the growing trend of workers turning to AI for employment law advice after experiencing a workplace issue. It acknowledges that AI can provide a useful general overview of common workplace problems, but warns that is falls short on critical details that determine whether someone has a viable claim.
March 18, 2026
If you’ve recently lost your job or experienced a serious problem at work, there’s a good chance you’ve already asked ChatGPT or another AI tool what your options are. You’re not the only one! The Fair Work Commission has reported a significant increase in applications that appear to have been prepared with the help of AI.
For many people AI is the first place they go to make sense of their rights. But there are some important things to understand and risks associated with relying on the answers it provides.
AI tools can provide quick information about common workplace issues. If you have never dealt with employment law before, this kind of overview can help you get your bearings.
Employment law is not just about recognising the right legal terms and options. Whether or not you are eligible for a claim, the merits of your claim and which claim to choose if there are more than one, must all be carefully considered.
AI tools do not reliably assess important details such as:
The Fair Work Commission has noted that some AI-assisted applications misidentify claim types. For example, situations that may only qualify for unfair dismissal claims are sometimes presented as general protections claims in an attempt to avoid unfair dismissal eligibility requirements.
AI systems can also produce fabricated case references, invented facts, or unrealistic compensation estimates with complete confidence.
Because of these issues, the Fair Work Commission has warned about the risks of relying on AI-generated material in applications. Some AI-assisted claims have missed time limits and included incorrect legal information such as referencing cases that do not exist. Where inaccurate or misleading material is relied on, applications may be dismissed or expose parties to the risk of costs.
Where AI provides a general picture, legal advice provides an accurate, comprehensive and honest one. A qualified adviser can assess whether you actually have a claim, explain what evidence is required, identify realistic remedies, and help you decide whether a formal application is the right step.
For many people, speaking with a service like JobWatch early can prevent unnecessary applications and weeks of stress pursuing a claim that was never likely to succeed.
AI can be helpful for understanding the basics of workplace rights, however, before you lodge an application with the Fair Work Commission or rely on a strategy suggested by an AI tool, it is important to seek assistance about your specific situation.
JobWatch’s Telephone Information Service is free and confidential and is there when you need to know where you stand. JobWatch is open from 9am–5pm (Victorian time), Monday through Friday, except Wednesday when we are open until 8.30pm.
If you or anyone you know has concerns about their rights at work, call our Telephone Information Service:
Melbourne Metro (03) 9662 1933
Regional VIC, QLD, TAS 1800 331 617
Copyright © 2026 All Rights Reserved
JobWatch acknowledges and is grateful for the financial and other support it has received from our supporters.
JobWatch acknowledges the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of this nation. We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands on which we are located and where we conduct our business. We pay our respects to ancestors, and Elders, past, present and emerging.
