Conduct concerns during probation can affect confirmation of appointment and may also trigger a separate disciplinary process. You need to know which policy is being used, what is alleged and what outcome the meeting can reach.
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Conduct concerns are different from poor performance
Performance concerns focus on the standard of work. Conduct concerns focus on behaviour, rule breaches, instructions, honesty, attendance reporting or other alleged misconduct. The evidence, process and possible outcomes may be different.
Can a probationer face disciplinary action?
Yes. A department may use its disciplinary policy, probation policy or both, depending on the allegation. Serious conduct may be dealt with without waiting for the end of probation. Check the invitation and policy rather than assuming the matter is only a routine probation review.
Your first steps
- Ask for the allegation in clear terms.
- Request the evidence and policy.
- Confirm whether the meeting is fact-finding or decision-making.
- Check possible outcomes and accompaniment arrangements.
- Preserve relevant documents and messages.
Unlock the full conduct-response method below, including how to analyse each allegation, prepare for investigation, avoid damaging admissions and protect the probation decision from unsupported disciplinary conclusions.
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