Performance and terminations
Manage performance and exits properly, so the decision stands
Ending someone's employment is one of the highest-risk decisions an employer makes. Most claims we see aren't about whether the employer had a good reason. They're about the process: no warning, no real chance to respond, or nothing in writing.
IndustrialHR guides employers through performance, conduct and capacity matters, step by step, so each decision is fair and documented.
Performance or conduct? Choose the right process
| Performance (can't do it) | Conduct (won't do it) | |
|---|---|---|
| Examples | Missing targets, quality problems, skill gaps | Breaching policy, rudeness, dishonesty, safety breaches |
| Usual process | Clear expectations, support and time to improve | Allegations, a chance to respond, then an outcome |
| Key document | A performance improvement plan | A show cause letter |
Getting this wrong is common, and it can sink an otherwise sound decision.
How we help
- Plan the process to fit the issue, the employee's service and your award or agreement.
- Draft the documents: meeting invitations, performance plans, warnings, show cause letters and outcome letters.
- Prepare you for each meeting, including what to say and how to handle a support person.
- Advise on the decision, including notice, final pay and the risk of a claim.
We also advise on medical capacity matters, where an employee may not be able to do the inherent requirements of the role.
Need ongoing HR support instead?
From $295 a month + GST
Alliance Light: unlimited written advice from $295 a month. Alliance Plus: hands-on HR from $1,450 a month (all + GST)
- Unlimited email HR advice
- A named practitioner who knows your business
- Contracts, letters and meetings handled for you
- Templates and documentation
- Proactive risk alerts
Common questions
How many warnings do we need to give?
There's no fixed number in the law. What matters is that the employee knew the problem and had a fair chance to fix it.
Can we dismiss for serious misconduct on the spot?
Sometimes, but you still need a fair process first. Call before you act.
Is this covered by Alliance?
Alliance Light covers the advice and templates. Alliance Plus covers running the process with you. Without a membership, a full managed process is quoted as a fixed fee.
Talk to us before your next meeting
Call 0481 100 416 or book a consultation before your next meeting with the employee.
Related articles
Practical guidance on performance and terminations.
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© 2026 IndustrialHR. All rights reserved.
Gold Coast, Queensland | 0481 100 416
IndustrialHR does not provide legal advice.
Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | Articles
© 2026 IndustrialHR. All rights reserved.
Gold Coast, Queensland | 0481 100 416
IndustrialHR does not provide legal advice.