Official form guide
This form (F8A) is used by the former employer or other parties named in an unfair dismissal application to respond to a general protections dismissal claim. It helps the Fair Work Commission gather information about respondents involved in the case.
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Form Overview
This form (F8A) is used by the former employer or other parties named in an unfair dismissal application to respond to a general protections dismissal claim. It helps the Fair Work Commission gather information about respondents involved in the case.
Plain English
If you're an employer or someone else responding to a worker's unfair dismissal complaint (with extra people in the mix), this form is for you. You'll need to fill out your contact details, legal name, and answer questions about needing an interpreter or objecting to a conference.
Submission Date
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Situation
Why it matters
✓ Check before you continue
You're the former employer responding to an unfair dismissal claim
You need to provide respondent details and address claims against you
✓ Confirm you’re not the applicant (who uses Form F8)
Respondent is a company needing ACN/ABN
Required for Fair Work Commission to verify identity
✓ Double-check you have correct ACN/ABN
You want to object on jurisdictional grounds before conference
Must fill out section 5.1; otherwise objection may be raised later but not considered early
✓ Ensure you complete that section if needed
Deadlines depend on when the unfair dismissal application was lodged; extensions for late applications are considered if you answer question 2.1, and jurisdictional objections must be addressed before a conference is scheduled.
Field map
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->The Fair Work Commission approved this form (F8A) with effect from 7 November 2025.
Quick Facts
Downloads & source
Forgetting to provide ACN/ABN for company respondents—this is mandatory and may cause delays
Not answering whether applicant gave correct legal name in Form F8—must check “Yes” or “No”
Missing section 5.1 if you want to object on jurisdictional grounds early—otherwise objection may be raised later but not considered before conference
Attaching irrelevant documents—only attach items directly related to your response
Source transparency
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