Workplace Dispute Resolution

Conflicts and disputes in the workplace are unavoidable. However, as an employer, it is imperative that you understand how to effectively resolve issues through successful investigations, mediation, facilitated discussions and dispute resolution techniques. 

Workplace disputes won’t always look the same. They can arise from bullying complaints, payroll disagreements or other general conflicts. Unresolved disputes, or disputes that go on longer than they need to, can severely impact morale, productivity and general workplace satisfaction. For the employer, disputes can often escalate into Fair Work claims and costly penalties. 

At WorkPlacePLUS, we help Australian employers resolve workplace conflicts and disputes to ensure safety, compliance and fairness across the workplace, protecting your workforce and your business.

Our Approach To Dispute Resolution:

\We take a communication-centred approach to navigating workplace disputes. As an employer, handling disputes in-house can trigger claims of bias, favouritism, conflict of interest, insensitivity and even bullying. However, a senior HR consultant from WorkpalcePLUS can step in as an unbiased and impartial specialist to create a safe space for employees to share their viewpoints, and to ensure that disputes are effectively resolved before they escalate.

We’ve developed integrated solutions that are designed to address any underlying issues in your workplace that may be causing disputes (i.e. HR conflict, cultural hiccups). We tailor our solutions and approach to your business or organisation to ensure that you see successful implementation and difference.

Types of Workplace Disputes That We Handle: 

Workplace disputes can vary in origin, complexity and reasons. Some common workplace disputes that we handle include: 

• Employee complaints and interpersonal grievances

• Bullying, discrimination and harassment claims

• Performance and leadership friction

• Payroll and industrial disputes

• Contractual and independent contractor disagreements

• Fair Work issues and union involvement

Our team is experienced and committed to resolving these issues in your workplace to ensure they don’t escalate and lead to legal fees or compliance breaches.

What Are Our Dispute Resolution Services?

Our dispute resolution services are designed to support employers in managing issues in the workplace effectively, fairly and quickly. Some of our services include: 

• Independent Workplace Investigations: These are fact-finding investigations that manage complex or sensitive complaints, ensuring that procedures are fair and objective.

• Workplace Mediation: We facilitate discussions through our trained and impartial mediators, who help disputing individuals reach a mutual and sensible solution.

• Strategic HR and IR Advice: Our team guides boards, management and HR leaders on how they can handle grievances, disciplinary processes and Fair Work claims legally and ethically. 

• Workplace Culture Reviews: We identify the root cause of workplace conflict and provide recommendations that can be implemented to build healthier, safer and more respectful work environments.

Who We Support:

All industries and businesses experience disputes; that’s why WorkPlacePLUS supports a wide range of industries and businesses with their workplace disputes, including: 

• Health and Community Services

• Not For Profit and Public Sector

• Local Councils

• Private Practices and SME businesses

• Independent Schools

And more. If your workplace frequently experiences disputes or conflict, contact our team today on (03) 9492 0958, and we’ll build an approach that targets safe and efficient resolution, so you can focus on your day-to-day business operations.

Why Choose WorkPlacePLUS?

We understand that resolving conflict, as well as running your business, is a lot to have on your plate. That’s why we step in to help you manage and implement effective solutions to your workplace conflict. Ignoring or delaying your response to disputes can quickly escalate them and lead to larger repercussions.

As a neutral party, we’re able to navigate emotional or highly escalated disputes safely and respectfully so that your employees feel valued. Some situations truly require a non-biased party to ensure that employees feel safe to voice their concerns, and that the dispute is resolved accordingly. 

Want to know more? Contact our team, and we’ll chat with you about your options for dispute resolution and tailor an approach to suit your business or organisation.

FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the difference between workplace mediation and workplace investigation?

Mediation is designed for repairing relationships and talking through issues to reach a mutually acceptable outcome, whereas investigations are for identifying facts regarding a complaint, allegation or claim, e.g., misconduct, harassment or breach of policy.  

Will resolved disputes end up in the Fair Work Commission?

The goal of external intervention with WorkPlacePLUS is to avoid having disputes reach the Fair Work Commission through early resolution, saving you time, money and escalation consequences. However, WorkPlacePLUS can also help you navigate Fair Work matters and provide representation at the Commission.

What if an employee refuses to participate in mediation?

Mediation is voluntary. If an employee refuses to participate, WorkPlacePLUS can assess the situation, offer flexible alternatives and advise you on any options and risks.