Workplace Mediation Canberra
Workplace conflict and psychosocial hazards don't resolve themselves. Unaddressed issues can escalate into grievances, stress claims, law suits and resignations. Early mediation gives people a structured, confidential process to reset relationships and agree on practical next steps.
We have decades of experience helping organisations and leaders resolve conflict at work. With fixed-fee pricing and same‑week availability in Canberra, you can address conflict quickly and meet your WHS obligations around psychosocial risk.
When workplace mediation can help
Workplace mediation can assist in managing psychosocial hazards and interpersonal conflict such as:
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Ongoing conflict between colleagues impacting productivity or creating a toxic environment.
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Manager–staff tension over performance, communication or expectations.
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Return‑to‑work disputes after stress leave, injury or extended absence.
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Team breakdowns where collaboration has deteriorated and service delivery is at risk.
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Disputes about behaviour, exclusion or unfair treatment that sit below formal complaint thresholds but still pose psychosocial risks and affect team morale and psychological safety.
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Situations heading toward formal grievance, Fair Work involvement or legal action if not resolved early.
The workplace mediation process
Our process is flexible and aligns with WHS consultation requirements:
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Referral and briefing
HR or managers contact us with a brief overview. We clarify suitability, confidentiality, safety concerns and logistics. -
Pre‑mediation meetings (1:1)
Each participant has a confidential 60–90 minute meeting to share their perspective, clarify issues and discuss desired outcomes. -
Joint mediation session
The mediator facilitates a structured conversation where participants share views, explore options and negotiate practical agreements about behaviour, communication and next steps. -
Follow‑up summary
We provide a written summary of agreements and can schedule a follow‑up check‑in to support implementation and address any emerging issues
Common Questions About Workplace Mediation
How much does workplace mediation cost in Canberra?
Fixed fees apply: $3,000 ex GST for government and commercial organisations and $2,400 ex GST for not-for-profits. The fee can be split into two stages, so you only pay the first part if the matter stops after the pre-mediation meetings. For commercial disputes, see our business mediation page.
How long does workplace mediation take?
Most matters move from referral to resolution within one to two weeks. The joint session is completed in a single day, with individual pre-mediation meetings held separately beforehand.
When should we use mediation instead of managing it internally?
Mediation helps most when an issue is ongoing, emotions are high or internal steps haven't resolved it. It works alongside performance management and investigations rather than replacing them. For one-on-one manager issues, leadership and conflict coaching may be the better fit.
What is the difference between workplace mediation and a workplace investigation?
Mediation suits many situations where two or more staff members are in conflict. In an investigation, an investigator seeks to establish, on the balance of probabilities, whether particular allegations can be substantiated. It's often the organisation's response to a formal complaint or grievance. Mediation can often be used alongside an investigation.
How does workplace mediation help with psychosocial hazards and WHS obligations?
Mediation can directly address psychosocial hazards like workplace conflict, poor working relationships and bullying by creating a structured process for people to be heard, clarify expectations and reach practical agreements about behaviour and communication. It operates as a control measure within your broader WHS risk management framework.
Can workplace mediation be used for bullying complaints?
Yes, in some low‑to‑moderate cases where there is willingness to participate and no immediate safety risk. For serious or repeated bullying, a formal investigation may be required first, with mediation used later to rebuild working relationships where appropriate.
How confidential is workplace mediation, and who attends?
Discussions stay confidential to the participants and agreed organisational contacts. The people in the conflict attend with the mediator. A support person can join by prior agreement. HR and managers aren't in the session but can receive a short summary of the agreements, with consent.
Can you work with remote or hybrid teams?
Yes. Sessions can run over Zoom or a similar platform, which is often the easiest way to bring together staff across different locations or who have flexible work arrangements.
Can an employee refuse workplace mediation?
Mediation is voluntary. We can speak with each person individually to explain the process and address concerns but cannot compel participation. If someone declines, we can suggest other workplace conflict resolution options aligned with your policies.
Contact Us
ADDRESS
Level 8, 121 Marcus Clarke St
Canberra ACT 2601
Mon to Friday (9am to 5pm).
Saturdays by prior-appointment.
PHONE
02 6110 2004