Fair Work Commission (the Commission)
The Fair Work Commission is an independent agency established under the Fair Work Act 2009. It handles labour related responsibilities including setting and revising awards, approving agreements, determining minimum wages, resolving disputes (like unfair dismissal claims), and overseeing registered organisations. It was formerly known as Fair Work Australia.
The Fair Work Commission plays a key role in Australian employment by setting minimum employment standards and award conditions, approving workplace agreements, and determining fair pay rates. It also acts as a referee in employment disputes, including cases of alleged unfair dismissals, ensuring that fair and just practices are followed in the workplace. It also regulates organisations and unions to maintain fair workplace standards.
When employers deal with the Fair Work Commission
The Fair Work Commission is the national workplace relations tribunal. It was called Fair Work Australia until 1 January 2013. Employers most often deal with it when an employee lodges an unfair dismissal or general protections claim, when making an enterprise agreement, or in a dispute about flexible working, casual conversion or the right to disconnect. It is separate from the Fair Work Ombudsman, which enforces workplace laws. For example, an unfair dismissal claim usually starts with a conciliation conference run by the Commission.
Read our guide to the Fair Work Commission, or get Fair Work Commission representation.
General information only
This content is general information about Australian employment law, current at the date it was last reviewed. It does not take your circumstances into account and is not legal advice. For advice about your situation, call Employment Compass on 1300 144 002.
Last reviewed: October 2026
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