Industrial Relations Commission Protocols update

4 July 2022

Virtual Courtroom (“VCR”) or in-person hearings?

It is expected that most arbitrations will now be conducted in-person. Commission members will continue to list conciliations and directions hearings by telephone, VCR or in-person at their discretion. If parties consider that there are significant reasons in support of the matter being listed by different means, the parties should confer and then jointly write to the Registrar setting out the reasons. The decision as to whether to proceed with VCR or an in-person hearing will be made by the presiding Commissioner.

Vaccination status

Evidence of vaccination is no longer a condition of entry to the Commission.

Masks

Since Friday, 25 February 2022, the wearing of masks in the Hearing Rooms has been at the discretion of the presiding Commissioner.  There is no general requirement to wear masks in the Commission precinct.

Review

These protocols may change at short notice due to further COVID-19 rules announced by the NSW Government or further risk assessments completed by the Commission.

N J Constant

Chief Commissioner

4 July 2022