Employee Misconduct Investigator – Core Integrity
Employee Misconduct Investigator
How to Handle Workplace Misconduct the Right Way
When serious concerns arise about an employee’s conduct, employers are often faced with a difficult question — how do we investigate this fairly and properly? Whether it’s a case of bullying, harassment, theft, dishonesty, or a breach of company policy, working with an experienced employee misconduct investigator ensures that the matter is dealt with consistently, lawfully and without bias.
Core Integrity is a leading workplace investigation firm based in Australia. We help businesses and organisations take the correct approach to employee misconduct by offering expert investigation services, strategic advice and ongoing support to ensure a safe and compliant workplace. From the first allegation to the final outcome, our investigations are designed to uncover the truth while protecting the interests of all parties involved.
What Does an Employee Misconduct Investigator Do?
An employee misconduct investigator is responsible for examining alleged breaches of conduct or behaviour within the workplace. These may involve:
- Harassment or bullying, including sexual harassment
- Fraud, theft or financial dishonesty
- Breaches of confidentiality or intellectual property theft
- Conflict of interest issues
- Policy violations such as misuse of company equipment or inappropriate conduct
The role of an investigator is to remain independent, gather and assess evidence objectively, and produce a factual report that helps decision-makers understand what happened. Importantly, misconduct investigations must be handled without bias or assumption, and follow all legal and procedural requirements, particularly when employee rights and reputations are at stake.
For a full list of matters investigated by Core Integrity’s team, including bullying, discrimination, fraud and workplace grievances, visit our Workplace Investigation Services page.
When Should a Misconduct Investigation Be Carried Out?
Misconduct investigations aren’t only for the most extreme situations. Even lower-level issues can escalate quickly if left unresolved. An investigation may be required when:
- An employee reports inappropriate conduct by a colleague or manager
- There are allegations of favouritism in hiring or promotions
- Company property goes missing, or digital files are accessed without permission
- A whistleblower raises concerns through an internal or external reporting channel
- HR or management become aware of consistent complaints involving the same individual
Not every complaint will require a formal investigation. However, once a concern is serious, repeated or potentially breaches workplace laws or safety obligations, it’s vital to bring in a qualified employee misconduct investigator.
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Why Use an Independent Investigator?
It’s not uncommon for HR teams or managers to try and handle issues themselves. But when it comes to formal misconduct allegations, especially those that are sensitive or legally complex, internal handling can create risks.
An independent misconduct investigator provides:
- Objectivity: No pre-existing relationships with staff that may cause bias.
- Expertise: Knowledge of employment law, procedural fairness, and investigative technique.
- Credibility: Third-party investigations are often more trusted by staff and stakeholders.
- Compliance: Ensures workplace investigations follow the correct Australian legal process.
When internal staff handle investigations, outcomes can be questioned, and fairness may be compromised. That’s why so many organisations across Australia turn to Core Integrity for support in workplace investigations involving employee misconduct.
Steps Taken During an Employee Misconduct Investigation
1. Initial Review and Allegation Assessment
The investigation begins with a review of the allegation. This includes reviewing complaint emails, manager observations or whistleblower reports. The nature of the complaint determines the scope and level of formality required.
At this stage, the employer may also take precautionary steps to protect individuals involved. This can include temporary redeployment, suspension (on pay), or access restrictions — always in a way that respects employee rights.
2. Investigation Planning
A structured plan is created to outline:
- The specific allegations under review
- The timeframe and individuals involved
- Potential evidence to be collected
- Any legal risks, conflicts of interest or confidentiality concerns
Investigations that lack planning often lead to incomplete or delayed outcomes. Core Integrity helps ensure your process is thorough, legally compliant and manageable.
3. Interviews and Fact-Finding
Investigators speak with all relevant witnesses and gather their statements in a respectful, non-accusatory manner. The accused employee will also have the chance to respond to the allegations and share their side of the story.
This stage may also include review of:
- Emails, messages and internal communication
- Access logs and digital evidence
- Financial transactions, timesheets or audit trails
- CCTV footage or phone recordings
The goal is to establish what happened, when it happened, and who was involved — all while ensuring confidentiality and fairness.
If your investigation involves serious misconduct such as theft, dishonesty or fraud, you can read more about Core Integrity’s expertise in corporate fraud investigations.
Victoria:
The Equal Opportunity Act 2010 and the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 impose duties on employers to prevent discrimination and ensure workplace safety.
Procedural Fairness: A Critical Element
One of the most important responsibilities of an employee misconduct investigator is to ensure procedural fairness. This means that:
- The accused employee is informed of the allegations
- They are given a reasonable opportunity to respond
- The investigation remains impartial throughout
- Decisions are based on evidence, not assumption
Failing to meet these standards can lead to legal claims for unfair dismissal or discrimination. Working with experienced investigators ensures your process aligns with Fair Work Commission standards and protects your organisation from exposure.
How Are Findings Reported?
After collecting and analysing all evidence, the investigator will provide a written report. This document outlines:
- The scope of the investigation
- A summary of evidence collected
- Findings on whether misconduct is substantiated
- Recommendations for next steps
Core Integrity’s reports are written clearly and professionally, allowing HR teams, senior leadership or legal counsel to take action with confidence. Where needed, we can also assist with implementing outcomes and planning any broader culture or policy changes.
After the Investigation – What Comes Next?
Investigating employee misconduct is not the end of the story. Organisations must be prepared to act based on the outcome. This can involve:
- Disciplinary action, including warnings or termination
- Mediation or restorative processes in cases involving conflict
- Training and education for staff
- Policy or process changes
- External reporting, where legal obligations apply
Core Integrity doesn’t just deliver findings. We help clients manage the outcomes and take meaningful steps to prevent future misconduct or complaints.
Why Choose Core Integrity as Your Employee Misconduct Investigator?
At Core Integrity, we specialise in dealing with complex and sensitive workplace investigations across Australia. Whether you’re facing serious misconduct, harassment, fraud, or breach of company policy, our team will support your organisation every step of the way.
We help organisations respond to wrongdoing the right way — the first time. With experience across multiple sectors including corporate, government and not-for-profits, we bring legal knowledge, investigative skill, and practical workplace insight.
Our employee misconduct investigation services include:
- Confidential, legally compliant investigations
- Independent reporting
- Support with difficult conversations and outcomes
- Post-investigation strategy and advisory services
If you’re unsure how to proceed, or want to speak with an expert, we’re here to help.
We help organisations uncover the truth and make the right decisions.
Need Help With a Workplace Misconduct Matter?
Dealing with employee misconduct can be challenging and sensitive. Whether you’re responding to a formal complaint or want to address an issue before it escalates, a professional approach is key.
Let Core Integrity help you conduct a fair, lawful and effective workplace investigation. Speak to one of our experts today to learn more about our approach to integrity and misconduct in the workplace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered employee misconduct?
Employee misconduct can include a range of actions that violate company policy or workplace laws. This includes bullying, harassment, fraud, dishonesty, breaches of confidentiality or misuse of company resources.
Can HR investigate misconduct?
Yes, but there are limits. For serious or complex issues, especially those involving legal risk or senior staff, it’s often better to use an external employee misconduct investigator for neutrality and expertise.
Is the employee allowed to see the complaint?
Procedural fairness requires that the accused employee is informed of the allegations and given a chance to respond. However, personal identifying details may be redacted to protect privacy where necessary.
How long does an investigation take?
The length of an investigation depends on its complexity. Straightforward matters may take a week or two. More involved investigations can take several weeks, especially where multiple witnesses or large volumes of evidence are involved.
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Our Footprint in Australia – Areas we Serve
At Core Integrity, we pride ourselves on delivering comprehensive and tailored Workplace Investigations Services to ensure the well-being and ethical integrity of your organisation. With a commitment to excellence, our experienced team navigates the unique challenges of workplaces across diverse industries. From major cities to regional hubs, we extend our services across the entire Australian landscape, fostering a culture of transparency, fairness, and accountability. Our mission is to empower organisations to address issues proactively and cultivate a positive work environment. Choose Core Integrity for unparalleled expertise and a steadfast dedication to promoting workplace integrity nationwide.
Read more about our Workplace Investigation service:
- Workplace Investigation Services in South Australia
- Workplace Investigation Services in Queensland
- Workplace Investigation Services in Western Australia
- Workplace Investigation Services in New South Wales
- Workplace Investigation Services in Tasmania
- Workplace Investigation Services in the Northern Territory
- Workplace Investigation Services in Victoria
- Workplace Investigation Services in Adelaide
- Workplace Investigation Services in Canberra
- Workplace Investigations in Perth
- Workplace Investigation Services in Brisbane
- Workplace Investigation Services in Melbourne
- Workplace Investigations in Sydney
Let us answer some of your questions about Workplace Investigations…
Results we’ve achieved for clients
Empowering Leadership: Building a Safer, Educated Workplace Through Tailored Training
Empowering Leadership: A Case Study in Fraud Prevention and Policy Awareness
Enhancing Workplace Transparency: How a Speak-Up Hotline Transformed Employee Trust and Reporting
How we helped Reporters be heard
Sporting reporters reached out about historical assault, feeling helpless. We built trust, connected them with their organisation, and ensured they felt heard.
Developing a tailored Speak Up Integrity Hotline program for Bingo Industries
We partnered with Bingo Industries as an integrity-risk partner to develop and implement a Speak Up Integrity Hotline that supported Bingo’s values of working honestly and ethically.
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