M4: Learner Manual

Strategies for resolving conflict should be found that respect culture. These may include: 

·       Consultative process. 

·       Protecting individuals from shame disciplining within the organisation. 

·       Non-confrontational approach. 

·       Using traditional methods if appropriate. 

Consultative Process 

A consultative process for dealing with conflict is one where everyone involved in the conflict is brought together to discuss it. Everyone has a part to play in resolving the conflict in a consultative process.   

If necessary, Elders or other respected members of the community may also be consulted on the best way of dealing with the conflict situation. This is essential in communities that still practice traditional ways. 

In a consultative process, everyone is given a chance to tell their side of the story. This can be done in an informal way, by sitting down with the person and talking with them about what happened. 

Protecting Individuals from Shame 

People should be taken aside to calmly discuss conflict issues in private.  They should not be shamed by having someone yell at them in front of their fellow Board members, fellow staff members, or others. 

Conflict should never be dealt with in a heated or shaming way. 

Disciplining within the Organisation 

Where possible, any discipline over conflict situations should be done within the organisation.   For example, if a normally even-tempered employee blew up one day and had a big fight with another employee, would you (a) call the police, or (b) tell them to go home, cool down and think about their actions before returning to work?  Option (b) would be more culturally appropriate and more supportive to the employee. 

Non-confrontational Approach 

A confrontational approach is when a boss screams at an employee. This puts the other person’s back up immediately and can shame them in front of others. 

In a non-confrontational approach, the person is not put in a position of feeling shamed, or having to defend themselves. It also gives them a chance to explain what went wrong. 

A non-confrontational approach is a gentler way of dealing with conflict and can prevent conflict from getting out of hand. 

 
Using Traditional Methods if Appropriate 

In some situations, particularly serious offences, it can be necessary and appropriate to use traditional methods of resolving the conflict. This depends on whether the community has a system in place to enable it to carry out traditional conflict resolution. 

In some remote Aboriginal communities, Elders have been given the power by the community and their lore to carry out traditional forms of punishment where appropriate. 

The Justice System in Victoria allows an Indigenous representative on the Court Bench to help the Judge pass an appropriate sentence. 

In New South Wales, the Justice System has a circle sentencing program where Elders pass judgement on the sentencing of Aboriginal offenders.