Official form guide
Form Performance agreement template: Performance agreement template
This template is used for a Performance Agreement. It outlines the agreed goals and standards between an employer and their employee. You use it when setting up or reviewing employment expectations.
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Form Overview
Fair Work Ombudsman Form Performance agreement template - Performance agreement template
This template is used for a Performance Agreement. It outlines the agreed goals and standards between an employer and their employee. You use it when setting up or reviewing employment expectations.
Risk Radar
Scan points- 1Don't just list tasks; make sure every goal is measurable!
- 2Not defining SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound).
- 3Forgetting to get both employer and employee signatures.
- 4Using vague language instead of quantifiable metrics.
- 5Failing to link the agreement period to a specific review date.
Plain English
Think of this as a formal contract about how well you'll do your job. It locks in what success looks like for you at work, according to your boss. It helps keep things clear for both parties.
Submission Date
- Filing date: It is typically completed when new employment begins or during scheduled review periods. Use it immediately if performance issues arise that need formal documentation.
- 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 when starting a new employee relationship.
- Use this when formally reviewing existing employee goals.
- Use this to set clear targets during a probationary period.
- Use this if you need to document agreed-upon standards for an ongoing role.
Form selector
Use this form or another form?
Need to lodge a complaint about pay?
This template only sets goals; the portal handles disputes.
✓ Check the Ombudsman website first.
Fair Work Online Portal (General Claim)
Want to review award entitlements specifically?
Performance agreements don't replace legislative rights.
✓ Ensure your role aligns with the relevant Modern Award.
Need a formal warning letter?
This template is for agreed performance, not necessarily disciplinary action alone.
✓ See if the FA has a specific Warning Notice form.
Disciplinary Action Form (if one exists)
Deadline or filing window
There is no single universal deadline listed in the template itself. However, agreements should be finalized before or at the start of a new performance cycle.
Before you submit
- 1Both the employer signature and employee signature fields are complete.
- 2All agreed goals have measurable outcomes defined within the template.
- 3The review dates (start date, mid-point, end) are accurately filled in.
- 4The job role/position title matches the employee's official designation.
- 5Ensure you have saved a copy before uploading or printing.
How to file this form
- 1Fill out all sections of the Performance Agreement Template clearly.
- 2Have both the employer and employee review the document thoroughly.
- 3Sign and date the agreement in the designated signature blocks.
- 4Scan the fully signed document (if submitting digitally).
- 5Upload the final PDF to your internal HR system or the relevant FA portal.
Known limitations
- 1This template does not replace the underlying employment contract itself.
- 2It is a guide; specific industry requirements might necessitate additions.
- 3The Ombudsman does not guarantee performance targets will be met, only that they were agreed upon.
- 4Not confirmed in official source (specific fields like 'KPI Weighting' are standard but check local versions).
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 template is the standard document for setting employment goals. It is actively used by employers across Australia to formalise performance expectations.
What changed or needs a fresh check
- Check the date stamp to ensure you have the latest version.
- Verify the Fair Work Ombudsman logo and branding are current.
- Confirm any changes regarding 'performance rating' scales (e.g., 1-5 vs. Needs Improvement/Meets Expectations).
- Look for updates related to digital submission requirements.
Quick Facts
Downloads & source
Sources
- SRCIssued by: Fair Work Ombudsman
- SRCForm Name: Performance agreement template
- SRCContext: Outlines goals/standards between employer and employee.
- SRCUse Case: Setting up or reviewing employment expectations.
Common confusion points
Thinking it is just a 'job description': It is more specific, focusing on *how well* you do the job, not just *what* the job is.
Not knowing when to use it: If expectations are vague, this template forces clarity.
Confusing goals with tasks: Goals are broad achievements; tasks are daily actions (e.g., Goal: Improve client satisfaction by 10%; Task: Respond to all emails within 2 hours).
Assuming the FA approves it automatically: Filing it doesn't mean the Ombudsman validates it, but it provides proof of agreement.
Source transparency
Copyright & Licensing — Australian Government Forms
BrieflyGo links to and explains official public form sources. We are not a government agency, and this page is for general form guidance, not legal advice.
Understand the agreement before you sign it.
Review risky clauses in plain English, fix the document, and keep it moving toward signature.