Crossword Genius

The stick they’ll get if they don’t work? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

staff

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'the stick' is the definition.
(staff is a kind of stick)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for staff that I've seen before include "Rod; workers" , "teachers employed in school" , "Body of teachers" , "Employees; sign of office" , "Emblem of authority" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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