Blog

Why HR cannot serve both employees and employers equally

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Jolasers Investigations recommends against HR internal investigations

Human resources departments often face a big challenge. They must protect the company while also helping staff. This can lead to significant friction when problems happen in the workplace. The danger of bias in a workplace investigation is a big worry. HR professionals work directly for the company. Consequently, they often tend to prioritize protecting … Read more

Procedural Fairness in Melbourne: Lessons from 2026 FWC Rulings

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Procedural Fairness & FWC Rulings Maintaining procedural fairness remains a cornerstone of Australian employment law. It ensures that staff and employers operate within a balanced framework during a dismissal. Proper conduct ensures that organisations avoid legal penalties while protecting the rights of every person involved in a contract, particularly when engaging in expert Melbourne workplace … Read more

How the 2026 Fair Work NES Review Impacts Workplace Investigations

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Focus on HR

National Employment Standards (NES) Review 2026 A significant regulatory shift is underway for Australian organisations. On 28 November 2025, the House of Representatives Standing Committee launched a major examination of the National Employment Standards. This comprehensive assessment aims to determine if current entitlements remain fit for purpose. It focuses on the changing nature of work … Read more

Shield or Sieve? Navigating Legal Privilege in Australian Workplace Investigations.

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Close-up of a perforated bronze shield revealing privileged workplace investigation documents, representing the FWC dominant purpose test in Australia

In the complex ecosystem of Australian industrial relations, understanding legal professional privilege during a workplace investigation is essential for resolving conflict, addressing misconduct, and mitigating risk. Recent regulatory developments have sent a clear message to HR professionals and business owners: the traditional “shield” of legal professional privilege is far more porous than many once thought. … Read more

Echuca Workplace Bullying Investigation

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Part of our Echuca & Murray Region Investigation Hub. Workplace Bullying Investigations Allegations of workplace bullying can paralyze a business. They drain productivity, damage morale, and create significant legal exposure. When a complaint is lodged, the employer has a legal obligation to respond. Consequently, an independent investigation is often the only way to resolve the … Read more

Weaponized Workplace Complaints: When the Victim is the Bully

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A tense office scene showing a manager looking stressed while a blurred figure holds a complaint document

When the “Victim” is the Bully: The Weaponization of Workplace Complaints In our previous discussions on Upwards Bullying and How Bullying Manifests, we explored the subtle ways subordinates undermine their managers. However, in 2026, we are seeing a disturbing rise in a far more sophisticated and dangerous variant: weaponized workplace complaints. This creates a nightmare … Read more

Creating Safe Workplaces: From Bystander Intervention to Professional Resolution

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Group of diverse professionals in a workplace safety training session on bystander intervention

In today’s workplace environment, safety extends beyond physical hazards to include psychological wellbeing and protection from harassment, discrimination, and bullying. Understanding the critical connection between bystander intervention and comprehensive workplace safety is essential for Australian organisations committed to creating truly safe environments for all employees. When workplace incidents occur, the actions taken by both bystanders … Read more