Workplace Investigation Guides & Articles
HR Manager takes home her personnel file in an attempt to avoid sacking as workplace dispute spirals out of control
A recent case before the Fair Work Commission where a HR Manager was dismissed for taking her personnel file without permission, shows the importance of employer’s intervening early to prevent…
Fair Work Commission upholds “cat and mouse” traffic bullying dismissal after workplace investigation
A recent case before the Fair Work Commission highlights the importance of employers investigating allegations of inappropriate workplace behaviour such as bullying, harassment and discrimination, irrespective of whether a formal…
Engage an external bullying investigation when transparency in doubt, says tribunal
Employers can pay heed to an organisation’s handling of unfounded bullying allegations which recently earned it the praises of the FWC. Even in light of this community services organisation’s thoroughness…
Employer fined after workplace investigation confirms underpayment of two staff
A workplace investigation has revealed that a Sydney company was illegally underpaying two employees, leading to the company receiving substantial fines and an order to repay lost wages. In a…
Real estate employee paid $9 per hour, workplace investigation finds
In a shocking recent case of employee exploitation, workplace investigators were at the forefront of examining a matter that involved gross underpayment of staff, bringing the case to the attention…
Sacking of inappropriate group emailer lawful after legitimate workplace investigation, says Fair Work Commission
The summary dismissal of an inappropriate group emailer and serial complainant by a regional water board has been ruled lawful by the Fair Work Commission. The employee had lodged complaints…
Employee compensated after being terminated for visitor bringing rifle to work: the importance of thorough workplace investigations
Informal responses are not appropriate when an employer or an employee is faced with allegations of serious misconduct in the workplace. Initiating an independent workplace investigation ensures that any decision…
Larger payouts in sexual harassment cases – a warning to employers who fail to handle complaints properly
When a complaint of an alleged harassment, bullying or discriminatory behaviour is made, an informal response is not appropriate. Employers can be held vicariously liable for such behaviours as they…
Train driver who left his co-driver behind at a toilet break reinstated by Commission: the need for thorough workplace investigations
When an employer is faced with allegations of employee misconduct, it is crucial that the complaint is investigated thoroughly. Initiating a workplace investigation ensures that any decision made is fair…
Preparing for and Conducting Workplace Investigations: what you need to know
The purpose of a Workplace Investigation A workplace investigation is a process to collect and review information in relation to a complaint of inappropriate behaviour (such as harassment, discrimination &…