How we understand the issues

An application can be lodged with us to have an employment relationship problem heard. If it is, we will need to understand and sort through any issues before an investigation meeting.

To help us understand the issues we may:

  • ask either party to clarify any points made in their statements
  • ask for more information from the parties or anyone else
  • hold a case management conference.

Case management conference

The case management conference is usually by phone, is brief and informal.

The purpose of the case management conference is to:

  • make sure the issues to be investigated are clear
  • consider whether other options would be helpful, for example, mediation
  • set a timetable for other steps that need to be taken before the investigation meeting. For example, supplying further documents, exchanging witness statements
  • confirm and get details of any witnesses
  • outline the process for the investigation meeting
  • agree a date, place and time for the investigation meeting.

Who attends the conference

A conference involves both parties and/or their representatives. The conference is attended by:

  • you and/or your representative
  • the other party and/or their representative
  • a member of the Authority.

An officer of the Authority will usually also be present.

If you have a representative acting for you, they will attend the conference. You can choose to be on the call as well, but you won't generally be allowed to speak.

If you are representing yourself, then you will attend the conference and speak to the Authority member and the other party or their representative.

We may provide an interpreter if required or help for people with disabilities — ask the Authority officer when the conference is being arranged.

Request your witnesses

At the conference, you will usually be asked to confirm any witnesses you would like to give evidence. You can ask anyone to be a witness before the Authority.

The witnesses will:

  • usually provide their evidence in writing in a witness statement
  • attend the investigation meeting to answer any questions about it.

Witnesses must attend the investigation meeting in person unless they have permission to be excused.

The Member will decide whether to accept your request to have your witness give evidence.

Find out more about what witnesses need to do:

Witnesses

After the conference

The Authority Officer will send you a written record of what was agreed at the conference. This document is called Directions of the Authority.

This could include:

  • action steps you are required to take
  • information you must provide
  • any deadlines you must meet.

The next step is the investigation meeting.

Investigation meeting