Official form guide
Form F33: Application for low-paid bargaining authorization
This form is an Application for low-paid bargaining authorization issued by the Fair Work Commission. You use it when you need official permission to bargain on behalf of a group of employees who are classified as 'low-paid.'
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Form Overview
Fair Work Commission Form F33 - Application for low-paid bargaining authorization
This form is an Application for low-paid bargaining authorization issued by the Fair Work Commission. You use it when you need official permission to bargain on behalf of a group of employees who are classified as 'low-paid.'
Risk Radar
Scan points- 1Double-check that every worker listed meets the official definition of 'low-paid' before signing.
- 2Forgetting to attach proof of low wages
- 3Incorrectly identifying the bargaining group members
- 4Failing to declare current employment status accurately
- 5Using an outdated version of form F33
Plain English
Simply put, this document asks the Fair Work Commission for approval before your workplace can start negotiating pay and conditions with staff earning lower wages. It formalises that request so everyone knows it's official.
Submission Date
- Filing date: Submit this form when you decide to formally begin collective bargaining for your low-paid staff. There is no set deadline unless required by a specific agreement or dispute.
- 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 permission from the Fair Work Commission (FWC) to bargain.
- The employees you represent must be classified as 'low-paid' under relevant workplace laws.
- Use this form when bargaining for a group, not just one individual employee.
- If your employees are high-paid, use a different application.
Form selector
Use this form or another form?
Bargaining for standard/high-paid staff
This form is specifically for 'low-paid' groups.
✓ Check if the group meets the low-paid definition.
Application for Bargaining Authority (General)
Just one employee needs representation
You don't need a group application if it’s just one person.
✓ Confirm you are not applying for a single worker.
Individual Employee Authorization Form
Need to change an existing authorization
Use this form when updating permissions already granted by the FWC.
✓ Ensure your previous authorization number is noted.
Variation Application (If applicable)
Applying via online portal only
While this is the physical/PDF version, you might use a linked digital version.
✓ Check if the system requires an online upload.
Deadline or filing window
There is no universal deadline, but aim to submit it as soon as bargaining commences. Delays can halt negotiations until authorisation is granted by the FWC.
Before you submit
- 1All sections of F33 are completed clearly and legibly.
- 2The applicant's contact details (name, phone, email) are correct.
- 3You have attached proof that the employees qualify as low-paid.
- 4If representing a union or company, include their registration number.
- 5Ensure you have signed and dated the form where required.
How to file this form
- 1Complete all fields on Form F33 accurately.
- 2Gather all supporting evidence related to low-paid status.
- 3Sign and date the application form.
- 4Submit the completed package via the Fair Work Commission online portal or mail it in.
- 5Keep a copy of the submitted form for your records.
Known limitations
- 1This form does not guarantee approval; the FWC makes the final decision.
- 2It only authorizes bargaining; it doesn't set the terms of agreement itself.
- 3The required evidence list might change based on the industry or award.
- 4Not confirmed in official source: Specific deadlines for lodgement are not detailed here.
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 current version for applying for low-paid bargaining authorization via the Fair Work Commission. Check the FWC website for any recent updates to eligibility criteria.
What changed or needs a fresh check
- Check the definition of 'low-paid' wages used in the current FWC guidelines.
- Verify the required supporting documentation list (e.g., payroll slips, employment contracts).
- Confirm if there are new thresholds for what counts as 'low-paid'.
- Look for updates regarding digital submission requirements.
Quick Facts
Downloads & source
Sources
- SRCForm Name: Application for low-paid bargaining authorization
- SRCAgency: Fair Work Commission (FAIR_WORK)
- SRCForm Number: F33
- SRCContext: Used when representing a group of employees classified as 'low-paid'.
- SRCNot confirmed in official source: Specific required supporting documents list.
- SRCNot confirmed in official source: Exact definition/threshold for 'low-paid' wages.
Common confusion points
Confusing 'low-paid' with 'casual': Being casual doesn't automatically mean low-paid, though it often does.
Thinking you need this form even if the employer agrees verbally—you still need formal authorization.
Not knowing which specific FWC office or region to submit the application to.
Forgetting to attach evidence proving *why* the employees are low-paid.
Source transparency
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