Parties may appear before the Commission on their own behalf. However, many people prefer representation by a trade union, employer organisation, legal aid service, lawyer or an industrial relations consultant. Parties may also seek to be represented by a friend, relative or community representative. Note: in conciliation procedings you will need to seek the approval of the Commission for your legal representative to appear.

Parties may also seek prior legal advice to assist them in representing themselves in the Commission. This is generally a less expensive alternative to having legal representation at the hearing itself.

Representation and legal advice can be found from a number of sources. These include, but are not limited to, the following:

(Please note the Commission does not suggest or encourage the selection of any particular source.)
 
 
Legal

NSW Law Society
The NSW Law Society provides a Solicitor Referral Service which refers callers - by fax, email or post - to three firms which practise in the required area of law. Each referral is specifically tailored to the client's needs, for example, geographic location, a solicitor who speaks a particular community language, a solicitor who will do a home or hospital visit.

This referral database is not available online. If you wish to seek a referral contact the Solicitor Referral Service 9-12am and 1-4pm Monday to Friday. Sydney metropolitan area call 9926 0300 outside the Sydney metropolitan area 1800 422 713. Email cad@lawsocnsw.asn.au

Community Legal Aid Centres
If you are looking for legal advice Community Legal Centres (CLCs) may be able to help you. CLCs are independent, non-profit community organisations providing free legal advice, information and referrals for individuals and communities across New South Wales.

An Employee's Guide to Unfair Dismissal
The Inner City Legal Centre provides an online publication that explains in plain English the NSW and federal laws about unfair dismissal and unlawful termination, how to work out if an employee is in the NSW or federal system, and the process for making a claim for those who are eligible. You can find it at: http://www.iclc.org.au/udg

Legal Aid Commission of NSW
The Legal Aid Commission of NSW provides legal aid and other legal services to disadvantaged people. If more than legal advice is needed, they may be able to provide legal representation. Contact Information

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Workplace Services Unit
The Unit helps Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders in NSW to understand their rights and responsibilities as employees, managers and employers. It also advises Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders on industrial laws and employment issues.

Women's Legal Resource Centre
The Women's Legal Resource Centre provides free telephone advice on (02) 9749 5533, as well as referral to solicitors and services.

LawAccess NSW
LawAccess NSW is a free service that will help you find information and services best able to assist with legal problems and questions. Telephone 1300 888529 (TTY: 1300 888529) between Monday and Friday 9am - 5pm (excluding public holidays).


Registered Organisations

Index of Registered Industrial Organisations
List of Unions and Employer Organisations registered under the Industrial Relations Act 1996.