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Complaints & grievances
Here are some of the most common problems that arise with apprentices/trainees and ways to deal with them.
Poor performance
If you have concerns about your apprentice/trainee's performance at work or study, discuss it with them. Document the discussion and ask the apprentice/trainee to sign it as an agreement that:
- the discussion took place
- the apprentice/trainee will improve their performance.
If the problem continues, talk to an apprenticeship field officer. They provide free mediation and may have some useful suggestions for both you and your apprentice/trainee.
Serious disagreements
For serious problems, we may hold a hearing on disputes related to:
- training
- (some) dismissals.
Your apprenticeship field officer can talk with you about this.
For disputes over wages:
- online help is available at the Commonwealth Department of Employment and Workplace Relations
- call WorkChoices Infoline on 1300 363 264.
Mistreatment
It is in your interest to ensure your apprentice/trainee is being treated well and fairly. It is also your responsibility to immediately address problems at work such as:
- sexual or physical harassment
- discrimination
- exploitation
If the problems are occurring at off-the-job training, support your apprentice/trainee and have them talk to their student counsellor.
For advice, support, and to find out your rights talk to an apprenticeship field officer.
Business downturn and selling up
There are several options that apply here depending on your situation. It depends whether your employee is an apprentice or a trainee.
The most common options are:
- ask your apprentice/trainee to work fewer days until business picks up
- suspend or cancel the training contract (but first we will need to assess your situation - apprenticeship field officer)
- Only if the employee is a trainee can you cancel the training contract (without our assessment)
- if you sell your business, your apprentice is considered part of it and transfers to the new owner. If you have a trainee you and the new owner can decide what to do.
