Employers should issue employees warnings in writing before ending their employment.
While you don’t have to give warnings, if an employee makes an unfair dismissal claim, the Fair Work Commission may consider whether you gave the employee a warning or gave them an opportunity to improve their performance.
Warnings should be given in writing so that the employee has an opportunity to fix any issues.
If you do issue warnings, make sure:
- you write down all the details
- you are clear about what the warning is for
- you are clear about what is expected and what they need to do differently to meet your expectations
- the warning is fair and reasonable in the circumstances
- ensure the employee has the opportunity to discuss the issues