Registered agents
A person involved in a case lodged under the Fair Work Act 1994 may be represented by a registered agent.
A person with the following qualifications and experience, prescribed by the Fair Work (Representation) Regulations 2024, is eligible for registration:
- extensive experience in industrial relations;
- a high level of written and oral communication skills;
- a sound understanding of the human, social and political factors which influence industrial relations;
- experience in undertaking negotiations in the industrial relations field;
- experience in appearing as an advocate before industrial authorities;
- experience in the interpretation and implementation of awards, industrial agreements, and industrial relations policies;
- reasonable knowledge of the legislative framework within which industrial relations operate.
Registered agents must understand and agree to abide by the Code of Conduct established by the regulations.
A person who is not entitled to practice as a legal practitioner because their name has been struck off the roll or because of other disciplinary action is not eligible to be a registered agent.
The regulations disqualify certain other persons from registration.
Who can apply?
To become a registered agent, you must meet the criteria outlined above.
What do I have to do?
Submit an application form in accordance with Schedule 1 of the Fair Work (Representation) Regulations 2024.
NEW APPLICATION –
Your application form must be accompanied by the following:
- two written references from persons who are actively involved in industrial relations and provide information about your qualifications and experience;
- a statutory declaration that you understand and agree to abide by the Code of Conduct; and
- evidence of registration fee payment.
RENEWAL OF APPLICATION –
Your application form must be accompanied by the following:
- a statutory declaration that you understand and agree to abide by the Code of Conduct; and
- evidence of renewal fee payment.
- A47 – Application for New Registered Agent
- A47a – Registered Agent Statutory Declaration
- A48 – Application for Renewal Registered Agent
Is there a cost?
From 1 July 2024 the fee for registration is $290 for one year. Unless otherwise determined by the Registrar, registration is for two years at a cost of $580.
List of Registered Agents
The Registrar is required to keep a register of registered agents.
The list of registered agents is not to be considered as a recommendation by SAET of any particular agent nor as a recommendation of registered agents as a form of representation over other forms.