Overview

• The Federal Court ruled that Jayson Gillham's discrimination lawsuit against the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) will proceed to trial.
• The MSO argued that Gillham, as a freelance contractor, was not protected under the Fair Work Act or Victoria's Equal Opportunity Act, but the court disagreed.
• Gillham claims the MSO cancelled his August 15, 2024, concert in retaliation for his public remarks on the Gaza conflict during a prior performance.
• The orchestra maintains the cancellation was unrelated to free speech and was due to Gillham making unsanctioned political comments on stage.
• This case could set a significant legal precedent for the rights of freelance artists under workplace and discrimination laws.