As Christmas is approaching faster than we would like to think, an article in The Age warns employers about the dangers of serving alcohol at the annual Christmas party.

The work Christmas party may become an alcohol-free zone after a Fair Work Commission decision in which a worker was unfairly sacked for sexual harassment and telling his bosses to "f--- off" after he was served unlimited drinks.

Leading employer groups have warned businesses of the new risks they face in serving alcohol to employees at Christmas parties following a successful unfair dismissal case

Innes Willox, chief executive of the Australian Industry Group, said the commission decision highlighted the need for companies to minimise risks at Christmas parties and other out-of-hours work functions. 

"This includes restricting the amount of alcohol served, keeping to a set time for the event, and considering how employees will get home safely," Mr Willox said.

To read more of the article from The Age click here.