Melbourne Boss Pleads Guilty to Bullying Apprentice at Christmas Party

Incident Overview

Steven Yousif, director of Melbourne Glass Solutions, has pleaded guilty in the Melbourne Magistrates Court to failing to provide a safe working environment. The charge relates to a sustained pattern of physical and verbal abuse directed at apprentice Ilyas Elkharraz between April 2019 and May 2021, culminating in a serious incident at a work Christmas party in December 2020.

WorkSafe Victoria was notified of the breaches. The magistrate is currently considering the appropriate penalty and whether to record a conviction, with a maximum possible fine of $80,595.

WorkSafe Victoria was notified of the breaches. The magistrate is currently considering the appropriate penalty and whether to record a conviction, with a maximum possible fine of $80,595.

WorkSafe Victoria investigated the breaches of workplace health and safety legislation. Yousif has pleaded guilty to the charges. The magistrate is currently determining the penalty and whether to record a conviction. Yousif’s legal representatives have argued against recording a conviction, citing potential financial impact on his second business, Jaden Commercial Windows. The prosecutor has argued for a conviction due to the severity of the offence.

WorkSafe Victoria encourages any current or former employees of Melbourne Glass Solutions who have experienced bullying, harassment, or unsafe working conditions to report their concerns. Confidential reports can be made to WorkSafe Victoria on 1800 136 089 or via the online incident-report form at worksafe.vic.gov.au.