Dispute Resolution

Conflicts and disputes can arise in any business, including over working conditions or pay. A clear, fair process resolves most issues early and protects working relationships.

All modern awards, including the Pastoral Award 2020, set out a standard dispute resolution process. There is no need to invent one.

The standard steps

  1. Resolve within the workplace first. The employee raises the matter with their direct supervisor, and continues their normal duties.
  2. Escalate if needed. If it is not resolved, the issue goes to more senior management.
  3. Involve an independent person. If the dispute continues, an independent person can be appointed to help both parties reach agreement, including through mediation.
  4. Refer to the Fair Work Commission. If it still cannot be resolved, the Fair Work Commission can assist.\

For national system employers, the federal industrial laws provide a model dispute resolution procedure. For practical guidance, see the Fair Work Ombudsman's Effective dispute resolution best practice guide. For enterprise agreement employers, see the Fair Work Commission's model term for dealing with disputes.


Tip

Keep a brief written record of the dispute and the steps taken. It helps resolve the matter fairly and protects the business if the dispute escalates.

Common questions

How should a workplace dispute be handled on a dairy farm?

Follow the standard award steps: the employee raises it with their direct supervisor first, it escalates to senior management if unresolved, an independent person can then help (including by mediation), and finally the Fair Work Commission can assist.

Who can help if a dispute can't be resolved internally?

An independent person can be appointed to help both parties, including through mediation. If it still cannot be resolved, the Fair Work Commission can assist. The Fair Work Ombudsman publishes a best-practice guide to effective dispute resolution.