Disciplinary Policy
A procedurally fair Disciplinary policy that protects you against unfair-dismissal claims.
Procedural fairness is the backbone of any Australian disciplinary process. The Fair Work Commission consistently considers procedural fairness when assessing whether a dismissal was 'harsh, unjust or unreasonable' under the Fair Work Act 2009.
This free template is written for Australian employers and covers the full disciplinary spectrum - from informal counselling through to summary dismissal - with the procedural fairness expected by the Fair Work Commission.
What this template covers - The progressive discipline framework: counselling, verbal warning, written warning, final written warning, dismissal. - Misconduct vs serious misconduct (per the Fair Work Regulations). - Investigation, allegation letters and the right to a support person. - Show-cause and response opportunities. - Summary dismissal grounds and notice requirements.
Why every Australian business needs one Most successful unfair-dismissal claims hinge on procedural defects - not the substantive misconduct. A documented and consistently-followed disciplinary policy is one of the most cost-effective risk controls a small business can have.
Download the editable Word template, brand it for your business, and align it with your Code of Conduct and Grievance policies.
Disclaimer. This template is general-purpose drafting for Australian employers and is not legal advice. Review and adapt the template for your industry, modern award coverage and workplace before issuing it. For complex, high-risk or contested matters seek advice from an employment lawyer or IR adviser.