Mediation

Mediation in the workplace involves a mediator, an unbiased third party, facilitating a discussion between the conflicting parties, typically an employer and an employee. It's a safe space where both sides can express their concerns and work towards a mutually acceptable solution. The process is voluntary, meaning both parties agree to participate, and confidential, ensuring discussions remain private. Mediation is often used to resolve misunderstandings, workplace disputes or grievances before they escalate to formal proceedings.

When to use mediation

Mediation works best early, before positions harden. It can resolve conflict between co-workers, complaints about a manager, or disputes about pay, rosters or flexible work. Many awards and enterprise agreements have a dispute resolution clause that requires the parties to try to resolve a dispute at the workplace first, and the Fair Work Commission often uses conciliation or mediation before it decides a matter. For example, two team members in a long-running conflict might agree to a facilitated meeting with an independent mediator and a written plan for working together.

Read our guide to mediation, or ask about our employee relations support.