AUFAIR WORKIndustrial Action

Official form guide

Form F43: Application for order about industrial action

This form is the official Application for order about industrial action issued by the Fair Work Commission (FWC). You use it when you need the FWC to make a formal decision regarding a dispute or action happening in the workplace.

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Form Overview

Fair Work Commission Form F43 - Application for order about industrial action

This form is the official Application for order about industrial action issued by the Fair Work Commission (FWC). You use it when you need the FWC to make a formal decision regarding a dispute or action happening in the workplace.

The form captures details about the proposed industrial action and asks for specific declarations regarding its legitimacy. It outlines who is taking action and why they are taking it.

Risk Radar

Scan points
  • 1Don't forget to specify *exactly* what type of industrial action is planned (e.g., strike, protest).
  • 2Failing to specify the exact date(s) of the industrial action.
  • 3Not declaring who supports or opposes the proposed action.
  • 4Using outdated contact information for submission.
  • 5Submitting without a clear description of the dispute at hand.

Plain English

Simply put, this lets you ask the Fair Work Commission to step in and rule on a work stoppage or industrial dispute. Think of it as asking them to approve, reject, or manage how a strike or protest proceeds.

Submission Date

  • Filing date: Submit this when an industrial action begins, or before it starts if you need pre-approval from the FWC.
  • Preparation window: collect IDs, supporting records, and signatures in advance.
  • Final review: verify names, dates, and required fields before submission.

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Glossary Terms

Hover a term to preview the meaning.

What this form is for

  • You need the FWC to officially rule on an industrial dispute.
  • Industrial action is happening, and you require a specific order from the Commission.
  • This form applies when seeking formal intervention regarding work stoppages or disputes.
  • Use this instead of general dispute resolution forms if your primary goal is a formal 'order'.

Form selector

Use this form or another form?

Dispute has started, but you just want mediation

Need the Commission to step in and help resolve it first

Check before you continue

FWC Dispute Resolution Application

You are lodging a general complaint about workplace conditions

This is broader than specific industrial action order requests

Check before you continue

(Likely different form)

Your union wants an order, but you aren't sure which one

The specifics of the required order change the exact form needed

Check before you continue

FWC Application for Order

You are applying for a determination on unfair dismissal (related)

Dismissal is about termination; this is about action/dispute

Check before you continue

(Likely different form)

Deadline or filing window

While specific deadlines vary based on your situation, aim to submit well in advance of the action starting if possible.

Before you submit

  1. 1All mandatory fields on Form F43 are completed.
  2. 2You have clearly identified the parties involved in the industrial action.
  3. 3The specific *type* of order you want from the FWC is stated (e.g., cease and desist, recognition).
  4. 4All supporting evidence documents (if required) are attached or listed.
  5. 5Your contact details for follow-up are current and accurate.
  6. 6If submitting online via the FWC portal, ensure your myGov login is active.

How to file this form

  1. 1Complete all sections of Form F43 thoroughly using plain English.
  2. 2Gather all supporting documentation related to the industrial action (e.g., union notices, employer correspondence).
  3. 3Sign and date the form where indicated.
  4. 4Submit the form via the Fair Work Commission online portal or mail it to the designated address.
  5. 5If submitting digitally, ensure you save a copy of the uploaded file for your records.

Known limitations

  1. 1This form alone does not guarantee an order will be granted by the FWC.
  2. 2The required supporting evidence is not confirmed in official source (always verify what specific documents are needed).
  3. 3Filing this form does not automatically start a hearing; it initiates the process.
  4. 4Not confirmed in official source: Whether you can file electronically or only physically depends on your submission method.

Field map

Compact field-by-field guide

7 fields

Applicant

1 items

Applicant Name and Contact

Full name (and representative, if any), postal address, email, and phone number of the person or organisation lodging the application.

Requiredtext

Respondent

1 items

Respondent / Employer Details

The exact legal name and ABN of the employer or other party the application is made against.

Requiredtext

The Matter

2 items

Type of Application

Identify the kind of matter — for example, unfair dismissal, general protections, or an agreement application.

Requiredselect
Details of the Dispute

A clear description of what happened, relevant dates, and the outcome you are seeking.

Requiredtext

Dates

1 items

Key Dates

Relevant dates such as the date of dismissal or the date the issue arose — these determine whether you are within time.

Requireddate

Supporting

1 items

Attachments

Any documents that support your application, such as letters, contracts, or notices.

text

Declaration

1 items

Signature and Date

Sign and date the form. Applications may also require a fee or an application for a fee waiver.

Requiredsignature
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Current form status
FAIR_WORK

This is the current standard application for seeking a formal order from the Fair Work Commission regarding industrial action. Check the FWC website regularly for any recent updates or digital portal requirements.

What changed or needs a fresh check

  • Verify the specific FWC Form Number (F43) matches your printed or digital copy.
  • Confirm if there are new sections related to 'Digital Workplace Action' not confirmed in official source.
  • Check for updated fields regarding the type of industrial action (e.g., strike, boycott).
  • Ensure the required signature/digital authentication method aligns with current FWC guidelines.

Quick Facts

Employers, employees, unions, or other relevant parties involved in workplace disputes must file this form.
The form captures details about the proposed industrial action and asks for specific declarations regarding its legitimacy. It outlines who is taking action and why they are taking it.
Submit this when an industrial action begins, or before it starts if you need pre-approval from the FWC.
You can submit this form via the Fair Work Commission online portal or by posting a physical copy. Check the official FWC website for the exact submission link.
Getting this right ensures your industrial action is recognised correctly under Australian workplace law. Errors could cause delays or mean your action isn't legally protected.
Start by filling in your details and the party you represent. Clearly describe the proposed industrial action in detail. Complete all required declarations accurately before submitting it through the FWC portal.

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Sources

  • SRCForm Name: Application for order about industrial action
  • SRCAgency: Fair Work Commission (FWC)
  • SRCForm Number: F43
  • SRCContext: Seeking formal intervention regarding workplace disputes/action
  • SRCNot confirmed in official source: Specific required supporting documents list.
  • SRCNot confirmed in official source: Exact current online portal submission link.

Common confusion points

Confusing 'Industrial Action' with a simple workplace grievance—they are related but not identical.

Thinking you just need to tell your boss; remember this is an *application* for a formal ruling by the Commission.

Not clearly stating *what* order you want (e.g., do you want them to stop the strike, or recognize the union?).

Failing to list all parties involved—the FWC needs to know everyone affected.

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