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Do you need professional advice about an employee dismissal, general protections or workplace bullying? The Workplace Advice Service may be able to connect you to free legal advice.

How does the Workplace Advice Service work?

The Workplace Advice Service offers free legal advice nation-wide as part of the Fair Work Commission’s Access to Justice Program. The Workplace Advice Service promotes access to justice, reduces complexity for users and avoids unnecessary costs for all where an application does not have merit.

The Fair Work Commission partners with around 90 private law firms, community legal centres, legal aid, and some barristers. They give free legal workplace advice to small business employers and employees about:

  • dismissal
  • general protections
  • anti-bullying
  • sexual harassment.

How do I know if I am an eligible employer?

To be eligible for the Workplace Advice Service you must have fewer than 15 employees and not have:

  • membership with an employer association
  • in-house staff who specialise in workplace relations, HR or law
  • legal representation.

The Workplace Advice Service focuses on early intervention. Employers and employees can access the service before lodging an application with the Fair Work Commission or before conciliation.

Great support, much appreciated. Workplace law is very difficult to understand, and often seems to slant towards the employee, even in the case of a small or micro business. I found this service really supported me through the emotional challenges of preparing for conciliation. Many thanks.
— Small business employer feedback about the Service.

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