CASE STUDY $3$: HELPINGOUT A FRIEND

Thomas is suspended from work and a disciplinary investigation process is in progress.

Thomas calls, Ben, who works in the organisation's HR department,

Ben is a friend of his fromyear's ago. They used to play football to gether and often go out for drinks on Tho mas's nights off. They arrange to meet at the pub that night.

Thomas biys Ben a beer and fills him in on what has happened $-$ he has been wrongfully suspended from work! According to Thomas, Kelly has thrown herself at him during nightshift and when he threatened to report her, she got in first andsaid it was him who assaulted her!

Ben had heard something abour the suspension and was very glad to hear that his friend was not in the wrong.

Thomas asks Ben if he could get the disciplinay file out of the HR Manager's officeand photocopy it for himso he knows what is happening in the investigation. This will help him as he will be able to see Kelly $\text{'}$s statement and what the imestigator has said in the report.

He needs the information before he goes in front of the investigation committee next week.

If Ben can get the report, Thomas promises that he will never tell amone.

Ben feels somy:for his friend and the next don he works back late. He finds the HR Manager's office key and 'borrows' the file. He makes a copy.

On his way home he drops in at the pub andgives Thomas the photocopies Ben can't believe the lies that Kelty has told about Thomas in her statement $-$ he feels really somy for his friendas it looks like it will just be Kelh's wordagainst his, and everyone knows that the female is alwas believed over the male in a sexual assault case!

Thomas biys Ben another drink. 'Cheers,$\text{'}$ Thomas says as they clink botiles. Thomas grins widely.

What legislation, Acts or codes does this situation breach? Provide an explanation to support your answer.