Independence & impartiality

About independence

We are an independent statutory office empowered by the Fair Work Act 2009.

This means, our investigations are independent from other government departments and other agencies. However, at times we provide information and refer matters to other departments and agencies, such as the tax office and immigration.

About impartiality

We are Australian Public Service (APS) employees and are accountable to the community for the decisions we make.

We must make impartial, reasonable, fair, timely and transparent decisions.

In an investigation, Fair Work Inspectors must:

  • be honest
  • have integrity
  • be determined
  • be responsive
  • remain objective
  • be proficient
  • show respect
  • be professional
  • adhere to the APS Code of Conduct and APS Values in all investigations.

 

Codes our people follow:

About natural justice

'Natural justice' is about unbiased decision making. It makes sure people have the chance to be heard where their rights, interests or reasonable expectations are affected by a decision or determination.

We apply natural justice principles in our investigations - they're objective and free from bias.

We make sure the people involved have the best possible chance to be heard. To do this, we make sure people understand:

  • a decision is going to be made
  • how the decision will be made.

 

This way, they can respond as effectively as possible.