Workplace & conduct investigations
Complaints, misconduct and grievance matters investigated independently: interviews conducted properly, evidence documented, findings reasoned.
Investigations & tribunals · Melbourne & Victoria
Independent. Thorough. Fair.
Findings are only as good as the process behind them.
We conduct independent investigations and advise on disciplinary and tribunal processes for sporting organisations, associations and businesses, with a focus on fair process, reliable evidence and clear reasons.
- Workplace & conduct
- Sports disciplinary & tribunals
- Financial irregularities
- Procedural fairness
Why process matters
An investigation is judged by its fairness.
Whether the subject is a workplace complaint, an on-field incident or a question in the accounts, the outcome will be tested against the same standards: was the process fair, was the evidence gathered properly, and do the findings follow from it.
We investigate independently, put allegations squarely to the people who must answer them, weigh the evidence carefully and report in plain English. Our reports give decision-makers a clear account of the evidence, findings and reasons.
What we can assist with
From a clear scope to reasoned findings.
Depending on the engagement, we can act as an independent investigator, advise an organisation on its process, or represent a party before a disciplinary tribunal. We agree the role and check conflicts at the outset.
Sports disciplinary & integrity matters
We advise leagues, clubs and associations on disciplinary charges, hearings and appeals, including tribunal processes for sporting competitions.
Tribunal advocacy & hearings
Presenting and defending matters before sporting tribunals and disciplinary bodies, with the preparation a fair hearing deserves.
Financial irregularities & accounting investigations
When the numbers do not add up, we examine the transactions, records and controls, working alongside accountants and auditors where the matter needs them.
Procedural fairness & governance reviews
We review disciplinary rules, tribunal procedures and decision-making frameworks to identify gaps and strengthen procedural fairness.
Reports & recommendations
Findings that state the evidence, the standard applied and the reasons, written to be read by the people who must act on them.
How we work
A process built to be tested.
Every investigation starts by defining what is actually being investigated and against what standard. The steps that follow are documented as they happen, so the file explains itself.
Scope
Terms of reference, the applicable rules or policies, and the standard the conduct is measured against.
Investigate
Documents, interviews and evidence, gathered fairly, with allegations put to those who must answer them.
Report
Findings and recommendations with reasons, delivered in plain English to the decision-maker.
When to bring us in
Early advice keeps your options open.
Problems with independence, unclear allegations or departures from the organisation’s rules can undermine an investigation. Early advice helps establish the right scope and process before evidence is gathered or decisions are made.
Engage us when:
- 01A complaint or incident landsWe can set up the process correctly from day one: who investigates, under what terms, against which rules.
- 02Independence is in questionWhen the matter is too close to the people who would ordinarily run it, an external investigator can help address conflicts and concerns about impartiality.
- 03The accounts raise a questionWe can examine irregularities discreetly and properly, before positions form and records go missing.
- 04A hearing is comingWe can prepare charges, evidence and submissions for a tribunal, or defend them, with the matter put properly either way.
- 05A process is being challengedWe can review what was done, what the rules required, and whether the findings survive, before the challenge escalates.
Discuss an investigation
Talk it through before it grows.
Start with a brief, non-confidential outline of the issue and the parties involved. We will check whether we can assist and arrange a suitable channel for sensitive information.