Sound familiar?
Fair Work Commission support
An application has landed and you need to respond clearly, on time and with the right information. I help you understand the process and explore an early resolution where appropriate.
- An unfair dismissal application requiring a response.
- A general protections dispute with unclear next steps.
- A stop-bullying application affecting your workplace.
A practical next step
How I help
- 01
Check the application and dates
We review the documents, relevant deadlines and immediate workplace concerns.
- 02
Organise your response
I help assemble records, clarify the issues and prepare a response based on the facts.
- 03
Prepare for the next stage
We discuss conferences, conciliation and possible outcomes. Representation arrangements are confirmed separately.
- 04
Explore a practical resolution
Where appropriate, we consider early settlement and workable terms without promising a particular result.
Who it’s for
Available to councils, schools, health services, aged and disability care providers, and small and family businesses.
Serving Northern Rivers NSW, Tweed, Gold Coast, Brisbane and SE Qld, with Australia-wide online appointments. In-person availability is agreed for your location.
Areas we serve →Why Open Hands
Lorraine Dawson is an AMDRAS-accredited mediator and qualified lawyer (LLB), with a master’s in HR and organisational development. She brings an impartial, practical understanding of the people and legal issues involved.
Meet in person or online. Information is handled confidentially, subject to agreed terms, legal obligations and relevant safety exceptions.
Questions people ask
General information only, not legal advice. Your circumstances and the current rules matter.
Which matters can you help with?
Employer support includes general protections, unfair dismissal and bullying applications, subject to the circumstances and agreed scope.
Are there short application deadlines?
Unfair dismissal and general protections dismissal applications generally have a 21-day filing deadline after dismissal takes effect. Response deadlines vary. Seek prompt advice; settlement discussions do not stop the clock.
Does the Commission award compensation for bullying?
Its stop-bullying jurisdiction is directed at preventing further bullying, not awarding compensation for past bullying. Eligibility and an ongoing risk are relevant.
Can every matter settle confidentially?
No outcome or confidentiality guarantee is possible. Early resolution may be available, but proceedings, decisions or disclosure obligations can affect privacy.
Can a lawyer represent an employer automatically?
Permission may be needed for lawyer or paid-agent representation in Commission proceedings, with exceptions. We check the requirements for the particular stage and matter.
Start with a conversation.
Thirty minutes, no cost, no obligation.