Official form guide
Form F57: Application for order about community service leave
This form is an application submitted to the Fair Work Commission regarding community service leave. Use it when seeking a formal order about taking time off for community service activities.
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Form Overview
Fair Work Commission Form F57 - Application for order about community service leave
This form is an application submitted to the Fair Work Commission regarding community service leave. Use it when seeking a formal order about taking time off for community service activities.
Risk Radar
Scan points- 1Ensure you include specific start and end dates for the requested community service period.
- 2Forgetting to attach supporting documentation from the charity/service provider
- 3Not specifying if the leave needs to be paid or unpaid
- 4Submitting the application after the required start date
- 5Incorrectly referencing workplace agreements
Plain English
If you need official permission from the Fair Work Commission for time away from work to complete community service, this form helps start that process. It ensures your request is formally lodged with the correct body.
Submission Date
- Filing date: Submit this form when you need to apply for the official order before taking the leave.
- 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
- Use this form when you need a formal order from the FWC about taking time off for community service.
- Submit this if your current employment agreement does not cover community service leave.
- This is specifically for requesting an official direction or ruling on leave status, not just notifying employer.
Form selector
Use this form or another form?
Need time off but don't know which process applies
They can confirm if an informal agreement is possible before applying to the FWC
✓ Check your employment contract and workplace policy first.
Contact a local union representative or HR professional first
The leave relates to volunteering for a registered charity
The Commission may require proof of the activity's nature and duration
✓ Obtain written confirmation from the organization running the service.
Ensure the charity has official documentation confirming its non-profit status
Applying after already taking the time off
Missing details can delay or prevent a favourable order
✓ Gather all supporting documentation immediately.
You must provide detailed records, including dates and evidence of participation, to support your application
The employer disputes the community service arrangement
Both employers and employees should prepare their respective arguments
✓ Review any prior communication (emails/letters) with your employer.
The Commission will require both parties' statements regarding the agreement terms and expected leave period
Deadline or filing window
The timing is highly dependent on the Commission's processing times; apply well in advance of your intended leave date.
Before you submit
- 1Ensure all personal and employment details are accurate and match your pay slips.
- 2Attach detailed documentation proving the required community service activities and dates.
- 3Confirm you have read and understood the scope of an FWC order regarding leave.
- 4Sign and date every page as instructed by the form guidelines.
- 5Check that supporting evidence is clearly organized and referenced in the application.
How to file this form
- 11. Complete all sections of Form F57 accurately using plain language.
- 22. Gather required supporting documentation (e.g., community service provider letter).
- 33. Submit the completed form and attachments via the Fair Work Commission online portal or by mail, following current guidelines.
- 44. Pay any required filing fees through the designated payment method.
- 55. Keep a record of your submission reference number.
Known limitations
- 1This form only applies to seeking an *order* regarding leave; it does not guarantee approval.
- 2The FWC order may be limited in scope, covering only specific dates or conditions.
- 3You must adhere to the timelines and procedural rules set by the Fair Work Commission.
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.
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Fillable formOpen in Editor->This form is used to apply for a formal order regarding community service leave from the Fair Work Commission. Always check the official Fair Work Commission website for the latest version or updates.
What changed or needs a fresh check
- Confirm the current fee structure listed on the FWC portal.
- Verify any changes to supporting evidence requirements (e.g., proof of community service hours).
- Check for updated contact details or submission methods from the Fair Work Commission.
Quick Facts
Downloads & source
Sources
- SRCAgency: Fair Work Commission
- SRCForm Number: F57
- SRCForm Name: Application for order about community service leave
- SRCPurpose: Seeking a formal ruling on leave status regarding community service.
Common confusion points
Mistaking this application for simple notification to an employer; this requires a formal court order.
Assuming the form guarantees leave approval; it only initiates the process with the Commission.
Not including sufficient, verifiable proof of community service activities and dates.
Confusing the scope of 'community service' as defined by the FWC.
Source transparency
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