Fisheries branch raises concerns over disciplinary matters
12 November 2018
Fisheries branch raises concerns over disciplinary matters – November 2018 (PDF version)
At the most recent meeting of the Fisheries Officers’ Vocational Branch at É«ÀÇÉçÇøHouse on 8 November 2018, Delegates raised concerns relating to the handling of disciplinary matters in the workplace by the employer. The following points may assist members in dealing with these issues:
- Formal allegations should be provided in writing.
- Allegations should be clear so the employee understands what it is they are required to respond to.
- Matters should be dealt with in a timely fashion. When an allegation relates to a matter that was a long time ago this may impact on the ability for the member to respond adequately.
- Correspondence providing allegations should properly refer to the Government Sector Employment Act 2013 and refer to the clause under which the matter is being dealt with.
- Whilst correspondence will advise that the employee is to keep these matters confidential, this does not prevent them from contacting their delegate or the É«ÀÇÉçÇøif they are a member.
- The employee is entitled to have a support person at any meeting related to the matter.
- All of the above are essential requirements to meet procedural fairness.
- If there is a finding against an employee in a misconduct matter they will receive correspondence from the employer to this effect. This correspondence should advise of the most serious penalty being considered, invite the employee to provide a written response and/or meet with the decision-maker before a final decision is made.
- Where a decision can be appealed in the Industrial Relations Commission, there are time frames. An Unfair Dismissal Application must be lodged within 21 days of the dismissal.
- For the É«ÀÇÉçÇøto be able to provide the maximum assistance, it is most important that the É«ÀÇÉçÇøcontacted in a timely fashion, such as when the allegations are first presented.
The above is provided as a brief guide only. For further information, you can contact the É«ÀÇÉçÇøon 1800 772 679. Not a Member? Join today at www.psa.asn.au/join to ensure your rights at work are protected.