16. Legislation and Workplace Policies Relating to Conflict Management

16.1. Policy Checklist

A workplace policy should:

·       Set out the aim of the policy.

·       Explain why the policy was developed.

·       List who the policy applies to.

·       Set out what is acceptable or unacceptable behaviour.

·       Set out the consequences of not complying with the policy.

·       Provide a date when the policy was developed or updated.

Policies also need to be reviewed on a regular basis and updated where necessary. For example, if there is a change in equipment or workplace procedures you may need to amend your current policy or develop a new one.

Employment law changes, changes to your award or agreement may also require a review of your policies and procedures. Stay up to date with relevant changes by regularly checking Fair Work Ombudsman.

 
Legal Requirements under the Fair Work Act 2009

Awards and agreements specify dispute resolution procedures for the employees they cover. You can apply these if a grievance arises in your workplace that is related to the award or agreement, or to the National Employment Standards (NES).[1]