WORKPLACE INVESTIGATIONS
Clear Process. Thorough Findings. Lasting Resolution.
Professional investigation services covering bullying, harassment, discrimination, misconduct and other psychosocial hazards — delivered by licensed investigators with over 28 years of experience across Australia.
TRIGGERS
When Should Employers Conduct an Investigation?
A formal workplace investigation is required whenever allegations arise that could affect employee wellbeing, organisational integrity, or legal compliance. Here are the most common triggers.
Allegations of Misconduct
Harassment, discrimination, bullying or unethical conduct reported by any employee.
Issues of Incapacity
When an employee may be unable to fulfil the inherent requirements of their role for reasons unrelated to behaviour.
Policy Violations
Suspected breaches of safety regulations, confidentiality, or code of conduct obligations.
Employee Complaints
Concerns about working conditions or colleague behaviour that may adversely affect wellbeing.
Employee Disputes
Escalating interpersonal conflicts that threaten workplace harmony and need independent resolution.
Legal & Regulatory Compliance
When legal obligations necessitate investigation — workplace safety, employee rights, mandatory reporting.
Serious Incidents
Following accidents, theft or workplace violence — to understand circumstances and prevent recurrence.
Whistleblower Complaints
When an employee reports illegal or hazardous practices and seeks protection under whistleblower legislation.
Independent InvestigatoR
When To Engage an External Investigator
Organisations may choose to engage an independent investigator like EMA when internal processes aren’t sufficient or appropriate. Common reasons include:
01
The issues cannot be addressed impartially through internal channels.
02
The organisation lacks the appropriate expertise to manage the situation.
03
Sufficient resources are not available to conduct a thorough investigation.
04
The investigation involves senior personnel.
05
Results are likely to face external review or potential litigation.
06
A third party, such as an insurer, requires an independent investigator.
OUR APPROACH
Trauma-Informed. Thorough. Transparent.
Workplace investigations can be uncomfortable and stressful for those involved. Our investigators understand the emotional challenges faced by participants and are committed to a trauma-informed approach — mitigating any additional harm throughout the process.
Our team has been supporting clients for over 28 years. Our investigators are experienced employee relations practitioners as well as licensed workplace investigators, able to support your team with needs however small or large.
WAYS WE CAN SUPPORT YOUR TEAM
Advising on already-conducted internal investigations
Taking witness statements
Drafting allegations
Running employee response meetings
Providing disciplinary process and outcome advice
Findings of fact investigations
Operating under instruction from your lawyer (privileged advice)
Running complete disciplinary processes end-to-end
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about our workplace investigation services.
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Call us on (08) 8203 1700.
What is a trauma-informed approach?
A trauma-informed investigation is an approach that recognises the prevalence and impact of trauma on individuals involved in the investigation process. We understand when and how to apply these practices in workplace investigations to ensure we are not unduly contributing to the adverse impact on those involved.
What does a workplace investigation typically cost?
An investigation with 2-3 witnesses typically costs between $4000 – $5000, however there are many variables that can impact the time involved. We can provide estimates and will be transparent in real-time to ensure the client is aware of any changes to initial expectations.
How long does a workplace Investigation take?
Subject to availability of information and witnesses, an investigation with 2-3 witnesses can take between 2-3 weeks until completion and final report delivered to client.
How can EMA support our team in an internal investigation?
EMA can assist organisations with workplace investigations in many ways including:
- Advising on already conducted internal investigations.
- Taking witness statements.
- Drafting allegations.
- Running employee response meetings.
- Providing disciplinary process outcome advice.
- Finding of facts investigations.
- Operating under instruction from your lawyer, for privileged advice.
- Running complete disciplinary processes; or
- Support your team with any discreet component of your workplace investigation.
How do I speak to someone at EMA about investigation services?
Call (08) 8203 1700 or email [email protected]
What experience do EMA investigators have?
EMA has been conducting workplace investigations for employers across Australia for over 28 years. Our investigators are all licensed investigators whose experience is varied across all industries in Australia. Our team is also the subject matter expertise behand Australia’s only full end-to-end ER case management system, MyEMS. Please contact us to see how we can help.
We are here to help
Our team has been supporting clients with comprehensive workplace investigation services for over 28 years. Talk to a licensed investigator today to discuss your situation.