We are working hard to improve the experience of small business employers accessing our services. The Small Business Hub can help you find the information you need.
As a small business employer, the most common reason for you to visit us is to respond to a claim. Our role is to help resolve issues or disputes in the workplace. We also set minimum wages and conditions, and regulate registered organisations.
We regularly deal with disputes between employers and employees that happen in the workplace. When people apply to us to deal with issues, they start a legal process. If your business is named in an application, we will contact you. It is important you respond.
We know this can be hard but we are here to help. Our staff can explain our processes and direct you to information and forms on our website. We will work with you and the other party to agree on a solution. If the issue cannot be resolved, a Commission Member may decide the outcome of the case. This decision is legally binding. See about us to learn more about our role.
What's new
Paid family and domestic violence leave for small business
From 1 August 2023, employees of small business employers can access 10 days of paid family and domestic violence leave in a 12-month period.
The Fair Work Ombudsman's Small business employer guide to family and domestic violence can help small business employers understand their responsibilities and develop a workplace response to managing family and domestic violence.
Assistance for small business
Understand how we can support you and where to find help if we can't.
What is a ‘small business’?
The law defines a small business as having fewer than 15 employees.
Types of workplace disputes
Understand the different types of disputes you can be involved in.
Respond to a claim against a business
It is important to respond and tell us your side.
Dismissal rules for small business owners
Understand what a fair dismissal process looks like.
Initiatives to help small business
The work we are doing to help small business.