Principles of workplace consultation and change

The following principles support effective consultation and workplace change processes:

Proportionality

Consultation should reflect the scale and perceived impact of the proposed change.

Transparency and focus

Consultation process should be open and transparent, and records of consultation are made and are available to employees.

Inclusivity, accessibility and diversity

Employees should have a fair and reasonable opportunity to be included in some way and encouraged to participate.

Provision of information

Employees should receive clear and relevant information so that they understand the issues. The information should be clear and succinct, with enough background information to ensure employees have the details they require.

Timing

The consultation process allows sufficient time for the feedback to be considered in the decision-making process.

Responsiveness and feedback

The consultation process is transparent, and it is clear how employee input will be considered in the decision-making process. Feedback to employees is timely and is available to at least all employees who participated in the consultation process.

Evaluation

Consultation process should be reviewed before final decision-making to ensure they adequate and appropriate.

Resources

Adequate support and resources are provided to support employees to participate in the consultation process.

Confidentiality

Appropriate level of information is provided to employees in the consultation process, without disclosing personal, confidential or commercial-in-confidence information.