A conciliation hearing is a process where a commissioner (or a panellist, in the case of a bargaining council or agency) meets with the parties in a dispute to explore ways to settle the dispute by agreement.
The conciliation-arbitration (con-arb) process quickly resolves individual unfair labour practices and unfair dismissals through conciliation and arbitration. This process allows for conciliation and arbitration to take place as a continuous process on the same day, if required.
Conciliation resolves disputes quickly and fairly. The conciliation process is uncomplicated, inexpensive and does not allow for any legal representation. The decision to settle is in the hands of the parties involved.
At a conciliation meeting the employer may appear in person or may be represented by a director or another employee or an employers’ organisation. The employee may be represented by an office-bearer or official of the employee’s registered trade union.
If the applicant fails to attend the conciliation hearing at the scheduled time, the matter will be dismissed. Should the applicant wish to continue, an application for rescission of the dismissal must be made.