Official form guide
Form F21: Application for dispute resolution
Form F21 – Application for dispute resolution – is a Fair Work Commission form used to start a formal dispute resolution process. Use it when you want the Commission to intervene in an industrial relation dispute.
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Form Overview
Fair Work Commission Form F21 - Application for dispute resolution
Form F21 – Application for dispute resolution – is a Fair Work Commission form used to start a formal dispute resolution process. Use it when you want the Commission to intervene in an industrial relation dispute.
Risk Radar
Scan points- 1The most common mistake is missing the filing deadline, which can bar your claim.
- 2Missing the statutory time limit
- 3Leaving required fields blank
- 4Submitting the wrong version of the form
- 5Failing to attach supporting evidence
Plain English
If you have a workplace disagreement that can't be settled directly with your employer, you fill out this form to ask the Fair Work Commission for help. It tells the Commission what the problem is and what outcome you are looking for.
Submission Date
- Filing date: Submit as soon as possible after the dispute arises, and before any statutory time limit expires (often 21 days for unfair dismissal claims).
- 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
- When you need the Commission to mediate a dispute over wages, leave, or conditions.
- When you have already tried informal resolution and it failed.
- For disputes covered by the Fair Work Act, such as unfair dismissal or general protections.
- If you are seeking a formal determination or order from the Commission.
Form selector
Use this form or another form?
Unfair dismissal claim
Specific to unfair dismissal only
✓ Verify you are not filing a general dispute
General protections claim
For adverse action claims
✓ Use only if the issue is unlawful termination or discrimination
Enterprise agreement dispute
Dispute about a modern award or agreement
✓ Confirm the matter is not covered by F21
Deadline or filing window
File the application within the statutory period for the specific dispute type – typically 21 days from the act giving rise to the claim.
Before you submit
- 1All party names and contact details entered correctly.
- 2Date of dispute and relevant events clearly listed.
- 3All prior resolution attempts documented.
- 4Requested remedy clearly described.
- 5Supporting documents attached and labelled.
- 6Form signed by the applicant or authorised representative.
- 7If filing online, confirmation receipt saved.
How to file this form
- 1Log in to the Fair Work Commission portal.
- 2Download the latest Form F21 PDF.
- 3Complete the form in clear, typed text.
- 4Gather and label supporting evidence.
- 5Upload the completed form and attachments, or print and post.
- 6Pay any required filing fee, if applicable.
- 7Save the acknowledgment or receipt.
Known limitations
- 1Form F21 cannot be used for personal injury claims.
- 2Only applicable to disputes covered by the Fair Work Act.
- 3Electronic filing requires a valid Fair Work Commission account.
- 4The form does not replace the need for legal advice.
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->Form F21 is the current version as of 2024. No major changes have been announced for 2025, but check the Fair Work Commission website for updates before filing.
What changed or needs a fresh check
- Check the form header for the latest revision date.
- Confirm the online portal version matches the downloaded PDF.
- Verify any new mandatory attachment requirements.
- Ensure the electronic signature field is present if filing online.
Quick Facts
Downloads & source
Sources
- SRCForm number and name from Fair Work Commission websiteconfirmed.
- SRCTypical 21‑day deadline for unfair dismissalnot confirmed in official source for all disputes.
- SRCOnline portal submission processinferred from Fair Work Commission digital services.
- SRCFee requirementnot confirmed in official source.
- SRCAlternate forms (F2, F3, F4)inferred from Fair Work Commission form list.
Common confusion points
Mixing up Form F21 with Form F2 (unfair dismissal).
Unclear whether a dispute qualifies for the 21‑day deadline.
Whether to attach original documents or copies.
How to indicate prior informal resolution steps.
Using the wrong portal (myGov vs. FWCC).
When a signed hard copy is still required.
Source transparency
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