FAQ: What is a personal grievance?

A personal grievance is the first step for an employee to raise a complaint against their employer. A personal grievance should be communicated in writing and must clearly outline in detail what the complaint is and the reasons why you believe that you have a grievance. A personal grievance typically needs to be raised within 90 days of the issue arising. If the grievance is unclear or not enough detail is provided, then it may mean you are unable to progress with taking legal action.

There are many reasons an employee can raise a personal grievance against their employer, these include unjustifiable dismissal (an unfair dismissal, or one that may not have followed the correct process), or an unjustifiable action the employer takes which disadvantages the employee. This can include discrimination, sexual harassment or failing to meet obligations under the employment agreement or by law.