Workplace investigations :: Sparke Helmore

Quality and consistency through collaboration

Workplace investigations

Workplace investigations

Workplace investigations are a critical component of maintaining a safe, respectful, and legally compliant work environment. They are more than internal processes – they are legal obligations that, when handled correctly, protect both people and organisations. Whether prompted by allegations of misconduct, harassment, bullying, discrimination, or breaches of company policy, these investigations require a careful balance of objectivity, procedural fairness, and confidentiality. For HR professionals and managers, understanding how to conduct a thorough and defensible investigation is essential, not only to resolve issues effectively but also to protect the integrity and culture of the organisation. Mishandling an investigation can expose an organisation to reputational damage, legal liability, and employee disengagement.

In this blog, we’ll explore the key principles, common pitfalls, and best practices that underpin successful workplace investigations offering practical guidance, legal insights, and fact-based examples.

Feature

Podcast - Workplace updates: the future industrial relations landscape

12 June 2025 |

Seamus Burke
Partner

Seamus Burke
Partner
Sparke Helmore Lawyers
t: +61 2 4924 7607

Seamus advises employers on all aspects of the employment relationship. He is passionate about the power of communication and always adopts a pragmatic, reasonable and value-driven approach. He has been recognised in Best Lawyers in Australia in the Labour and Employment Law category since 2016, and as a Recommended Employment Lawyer in the Doyles Guide 2024.

Thea Price
Partner

Thea Price
Partner
Sparke Helmore Lawyers
t: +61 7 3016 5032

Thea is a highly accomplished employment and workplace relations lawyer, who specialises in advising on all aspects of employment law and workplace relations. She regularly advises clients on complex workplace investigations, including matters relating to bullying, discrimination, sexual harassment, child protection, and whistle blower. Thea also presents at seminars on current employment law issues.

Podcast - Workplace updates: the future industrial relations landscape

In this podcast, we discuss the current issues in industrial relations, following the recent re-election of the Labor government, and the potential impact these may have on you and your business.

Commentary, updates, insights

Workplace Investigations: top tips for employers

Workplace Investigations: top tips for employers

16 April 2025 |
This podcast highlights the most common issues that arise when managing workplace investigations.

Sparke Helmore’s Workplace Investigations team

Our Workplace Investigations team provides independent, expert services to help organisations navigate complex employee conduct matters. They work across Commonwealth, state and territory governments, local councils, large corporations, small businesses, and not-for-profits, delivering impartial investigations into allegations such as misconduct, bullying, harassment, discrimination, and fraud. Their work supports employers in meeting legal obligations, maintaining safe and respectful workplaces, and making informed decisions based on thorough, procedurally fair processes.

Workplace investigations data infographic

Our team bring a disciplined and impartial approach to every matter. Their collective experience across both public and private sectors ensures investigations are conducted with rigour, discretion, and a strong understanding of organisational and legislative frameworks.

Workplace investigations team card

Search Workplace investigations articles

LinkedIn

X

Contacts

Seamus Burke

Seamus Burke
Partner
t: +61 2 4924 7607+61 2 4924 7607
m: +61 412 262 722+61 412 262 722
o: Newcastle

Thea Price

Thea Price
Partner
t: +61 7 3016 5032+61 7 3016 5032
m: +61 415 790 123+61 415 790 123
o: Brisbane