Conciliation: How it works
Find out how we conciliate complaints about alleged breaches of anti-discrimination laws.
Summary
We help people resolve complaints through a process called conciliation. This informal and flexible approach encourages both sides to share their story and find a way forward.
Conciliation can happen in different ways, depending on what works best for everyone involved.
As a part of conciliation, you might:
- exchange letters or written statements
- speak with a conciliator over the phone
- take part in a conciliation conference, either in person or online.
We can help you decide which option is most suitable based on the situation and preferences of everyone involved.
Information Sheets
Unlawful Discrimination - Understanding and preparing for conciliation
Complaints about racial, sex, disability and age discrimination.
HR and ILO - Understanding and preparing for conciliation
Complaints about breaches of human rights and other discrimination in employment.
Confidentiality in conciliation
All conciliation processes at the Australian Human Rights Commission are confidential.
Conciliation - Information for advocates and lawyers
Key information for supporting someone through conciliation or representing a client.
More about the process
After a complaint is made to the Commission, conciliation starts with both parties being given the opportunity to provide their side of the story. The goal is to give each person a chance to understand what the other is thinking and feeling.
You don't have to agree with each other—but listening is an essential first step.
Conciliation is a flexible and informal way of resolving complaints. Both parties are given the opportunity to provide their side of the story.
You do not need a lawyer to participate in conciliation. If you want a lawyer or another type of advocate to participate in the conciliation conference, you need to discuss this with the conciliator before the day of the conference and get their permission.
Our role
Our job is to help guide the conversation and help the people involved to consider different options to resolve the complaint.
We help both parties:
- understand the complaint
- clarify what's important to them
- explore options for resolving the complaint
- help write up the conciliation agreement (if required).
Our conciliators are trained to guide you through the process with care and respect.
Possible outcomes
Conciliation can lead to many different outcomes.
These might include:
- an apology
- a change to a policy or practice
- staff training
- reinstatement to a job
- payment of compensation.
The aim is to find a solution that works for everyone.
Complaints resolved through conciliation
Our conciliation register contains summaries of a selection of complaints that have been resolved through the Commission’s conciliation process.
Browse outcomes from past complaints resolved through conciliation.
Support options
You can take part in conciliation on your own. There's no need to have a lawyer or support person, but you can bring someone with you if it helps you feel more comfortable.
We can help arrange interpreters if needed.
Contact us
For more information, contact the National Information Service by phone on 1300 656 419 or by email at infoservice@humanrights.gov.au.
