Before terminating an employee’s employment because of unsatisfactory performance and/or conduct, you should make every attempt to address the issues. An employer operating at best practice may follow the steps below before terminating the employment of an employee.
If at any time you need more information or assistance, call the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 or visit www.fairwork.gov.au.
Step 1: Highlight expected performance and behaviour standards
Performance and conduct issues often arise because employees do not understand what is expected of them.
An employer should:
• make sure the employee clearly understands their role, the expected level of output or performance, and the expected conduct at work
• provide the employee with regular performance feedback and inform him or her of any changes needed to his or her work or conduct
• make sure managers and supervisors are equipped to handle unsatisfactory performance or conduct. This includes recognising the reasons for underperformance and providing feedback and training to employees.