How do I make a complaint

The person making the complaint is the complainant and the person or organisation that the complaint is about is the respondent.

Our Complaints Officers can help you prepare a written statement of complaint. Complaint Officers are available on telephone or in person.

Complaints should be in writing

A complaint must be in writing. After receiving information from you, a Complaints Officer will help you prepare a written statement of complaint, if required, and send it to you to check. If your complaint is about more than one person, you may need to make separate statements of complaint. When you are satisfied with the statement you need to sign, date and return it to the Commission.

When is a complaint formally lodged?

The complaint is formally lodged when your signed statement is received by the Commission. The person making the complaint is known as the complainant. The person or organisation that the complaint is about is known as the respondent.

Can I withdraw my complaint?

You can withdraw a complaint at any time. If this happens during the investigation or conciliation process, the Commission will let the respondent know in writing and the complaint will be closed.

Can you speed up the process?

Discrimination and harassment complaints can be extremely stressful for everyone involved. Both the complainant and the respondent may apply to the Commission to have a complaint handled more quickly. The Commission may fast-track a complaint if the case involves circumstances which need speedy resolution, for example, if the complaint involves:

an emergency health matter
ongoing sexual harassment
an allegedly discriminatory policy decision by the respondent.

Complainants and respondents should also be aware that:

legal representation is not necessary
they should try to keep the complaint details confidential to ensure easier resolution.
A complainant can withdraw the complaint at any time.