Fair Work Commission

What is the Workplace Advice Service?

The Workplace Advice Service is a free legal assistance program facilitated by the Fair Work Commission.

Eligible people and some small business employers can use the Service to consult a lawyer on workplace issues including:

• unfair dismissal
• general protections
• workplace bullying.

The Commission's role is to connect you with lawyers who may be able to help you. These lawyers work at law firms and other legal organisations that are completely independent of the Commission. 

The Commission offers the Service because it understands that legal advice can reduce anxiety and confusion, improve access to justice and minimise costs. 

Am I eligible to use the Service?

To be eligible for assistance, you must:

• be in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria or Western Australia
• not be represented by a lawyer
• not be a member of a union
• not be a member of an employer association, 
• not have in-house counsel, IR or human resources staff
• have an enquiry or issue relating to unfair dismissal, general protections or workplace bullying.

How does it work?

Step 1: Call the Commission

Call the Commission on 1300 799 675. You can check your eligibility and find out whether the Service may be able to help you. 

Step 2: Complete the consent form

Commission staff will send you a consent form. Complete the consent form in full then sign, date and return it to the Commission.

Step 3: Schedule your appointment

The Commission will either organise an appointment for you or put you in touch with a lawyer so that you can schedule an appointment. Your appointment may take place by phone or in person at the Fair Work Commission offices. 

Step 4: Attend your appointment 

Appointments generally go for 1 hour. Make sure you're prepared for your appointment by gathering any relevant documents and information. Think clearly about what you'd like to ask the lawyer so you can get the most out of your appointment. Bring a pen and paper so that you can write notes. 

During the appointment, the lawyer will listen to your workplace issue or enquiry. They might ask you some questions to better understand the situation. 

The lawyer may then offer advice on:

• what issues are likely to be raised at a Commission proceeding, and 
• whether your issue or enquiry is likely to succeed if you decide to pursue the action in the Commission. 

If there's time, the lawyer may offer advice on drafting submissions and witness statements or submitting relevant documents. 

Find out more

To arrange an appointment or find out more, please call the Commission on 1300 799 675.

Interpreter services for non-English speakers

The Commission can arrange an interpreter for your appointment if you need one. More information for non-English speakers can be found on the Accessibility page.

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