Official form guide
Form F13: Application for a workplace determination
This form is an Application for a workplace determination (F13). You use it when you need the Fair Work Commission to officially decide on a dispute or issue at your workplace. It starts the process of getting a formal ruling.
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Form Overview
Fair Work Commission Form F13 - Application for a workplace determination
This form is an Application for a workplace determination (F13). You use it when you need the Fair Work Commission to officially decide on a dispute or issue at your workplace. It starts the process of getting a formal ruling.
Risk Radar
Scan points- 1Don't forget to specify exactly what determination you want the Commission to make!
- 2Failing to clearly state the relief sought (what you want decided).
- 3Missing key details about the employment relationship (e.g., award covered).
- 4Submitting it too late after a critical event has passed.
- 5Not attaching required supporting documentation or evidence.
Plain English
Basically, this form asks the Fair Work Commission to step in and make a final call for you about something happening at work. Think of it as asking them to settle an argument or clarify a rule officially. If you can't agree with your employer, this is how you start the official process.
Submission Date
- Filing date: Submit this when a disagreement cannot be resolved through internal workplace discussions or negotiation. It should generally be submitted as soon as the dispute becomes serious.
- Preparation window: collect IDs, supporting records, and signatures in advance.
- Final review: verify names, dates, and required fields before submission.
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What this form is for
- You need an official decision from the Fair Work Commission (FWC) about your workplace issue.
- Use this when you want the FWC to rule on a dispute, not just mediate it.
- This form starts the formal process of getting a binding ruling or determination.
- It is used before other specific applications if you need a broad decision.
Form selector
Use this form or another form?
Dispute over pay rates
You want a final ruling on how much someone should be paid.
✓ Check the 'Type of Dispute' section.
Application for a workplace determination (F13)
Issue with unfair dismissal
If you disagree with being fired, this starts the official challenge process.
✓ Ensure you select dismissal as the primary issue.
Termination/Dismissal application
Need a specific clause enforced
You need the FWC to force an employer to follow a specific rule or agreement.
✓ Detail exactly which clause is in question.
Application for a workplace determination (F13)
Not confirmed in official source
Not confirmed in official source
✓ Check the FWC portal for related forms.
Deadline or filing window
While there isn't a universal deadline listed here, aim to file as soon as your dispute escalates beyond informal negotiation. Check if any specific agreement sets an earlier date.
Before you submit
- 1Fill in all fields completely; do not leave blanks if possible.
- 2Ensure you have attached supporting evidence (payslips, contracts, emails).
- 3Double-check that the parties listed (Applicant/Respondent) are correct.
- 4Verify the dispute details accurately reflect what happened.
- 5Confirm your contact information is current and reachable.
- 6Review the declaration section to ensure it matches your situation.
How to file this form
- 1Complete all sections of the F13 form thoroughly.
- 2Gather all necessary supporting documents (evidence).
- 3Submit the completed form via the Fair Work Commission online portal (recommended).
- 4If submitting physically, ensure you sign and date the hard copy.
- 5Keep a record or receipt number after submission.
Known limitations
- 1This application does not guarantee a specific outcome; it only starts the process for a determination.
- 2The FWC may require further information after receiving your initial F13.
- 3Filing this form does not automatically mean the dispute is resolved or settled.
- 4Not confirmed in official source: Specific deadlines depend on when you file.
Field map
Compact field-by-field guide
Applicant
1 items
Full name (and representative, if any), postal address, email, and phone number of the person or organisation lodging the application.
Respondent
1 items
The exact legal name and ABN of the employer or other party the application is made against.
The Matter
2 items
Identify the kind of matter — for example, unfair dismissal, general protections, or an agreement application.
A clear description of what happened, relevant dates, and the outcome you are seeking.
Dates
1 items
Relevant dates such as the date of dismissal or the date the issue arose — these determine whether you are within time.
Supporting
1 items
Any documents that support your application, such as letters, contracts, or notices.
Declaration
1 items
Sign and date the form. Applications may also require a fee or an application for a fee waiver.
Almost done reviewing the fields?
Fillable formOpen in Editor->This is the standard F13 Application for a workplace determination. Check the Fair Work Commission website to confirm if there are any recent updates or specific digital submission requirements.
What changed or needs a fresh check
- Check if there are new fields related to modern workplace arrangements (e.g., remote work).
- Verify the required attachment list is current.
- Confirm the submission method preference (online vs. hard copy) matches your needs.
- Ensure the FWC contact details listed on the form are up-to-date.
Quick Facts
Downloads & source
Sources
- SRCIssuing Agency: Fair Work Commission (FAIR_WORK)
- SRCForm Number: F13
- SRCForm Name: Application for a workplace determination
- SRCContext: Starts the formal ruling process at work.
- SRCNot confirmed in official source: Specific digital portal name.
Common confusion points
Confusing 'Dispute' vs. 'Application': A dispute is the disagreement; the application (F13) is asking the FWC to decide it.
Not knowing who needs to sign: Usually, the applicant signs, but check if your employer must also sign/agree.
Thinking you can resolve it yourself first: Filing this means you are formally asking the Commission to step in and rule.
Using this when mediation is enough: If both sides just want a conversation to fix things, another form might be better.
Source transparency
Copyright & Licensing — Australian Government Forms
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