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Workplace Policies and Procedures

Workplace policies and procedures aren’t just for ticking boxes—they’re the backbone of a safe, compliant, and successful workplace. Whether you’re running a startup or managing a large organisation, having clear and effective policies ensures everyone knows what’s expected, how to work together, and what standards to meet. In fact, businesses with well-defined policies tend to see fewer disputes, happier employees, and smoother operations.

At Workplace Wizards, we’re here to help you create tailored workplace policies that do more than meet legal requirements—they’ll align with your company’s unique culture and goals, helping you protect your business and empower your team.

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What are Workplace Policies and Procedures?

Let’s break it down simply:

Workplace Policies are formal rules that outline what’s expected from employees and employers. Think of them as the “what”— covering areas like anti-discrimination, health and safety, and IT use.

Workplace Procedures are the “how.” They’re step-by-step instructions for implementing those policies. For example, a policy might prohibit workplace harassment, while the procedure explains how to report and resolve complaints.

Together, policies and procedures act as a roadmap for keeping things consistent, resolving issues, and creating a positive environment where everyone knows their role.

Why Are Policies and Procedures in the Workplace Important?

Workplace policies bring structure, clarity, and confidence to any business. They spell out what’s acceptable and what’s not, ensuring employees and management are on the same page. This isn’t just about avoiding trouble with the law (though that’s a big part of it); it’s about setting the tone for fairness, transparency, and trust.

Without clear policies, confusion reigns leading to disputes, misunderstandings, and risks to your business. By having consistent processes in place, you build a stronger, more inclusive workplace culture and demonstrate your commitment to doing right by your team.

Key Workplace Policies and Procedures Should Have

Your employee handbook should cover the essentials to keep your workplace running smoothly. Here’s what you need:

Every policy should reflect your business’s values and meet the latest legal requirements, ensuring they’re practical and enforceable.

How to Develop Effective Workplace Policies and Procedures

Thoughtfully developed policies not only help manage risks but also contribute to a cohesive and well-informed workplace.

To create policies that are both practical and enforceable, consider these key steps:

Assess – Identify the areas where formal guidelines are essential, such as health and safety, employee conduct, and leave entitlements.
Consult – Work with legal professionals to ensure your policies meet all relevant employment laws and regulations.
Be Clear – Use straightforward language to make policies accessible and understandable for all employees.
Collaborate – Gather input from staff to ensure policies are relevant and encourage buy-in from your team.
Communicate – Train employees on new policies and provide easy access to reference materials.
Review – Schedule periodic reviews to ensure policies remain aligned with changing laws and business operations.

What Makes a Good Workplace Policy?

Company policies should not be long lists of ‘do’s and don’ts’. It’s not engaging for employees and generally results in the opposite effect.

Instead, it’s better to design and institute a policy that’s unique to your workplace – one that’s reasonable can easily be understood, and is readily enforceable.

[ Read our blog: Four types of effective company policies ]

Workplace Policy Updates and Reviews

Your policies shouldn’t gather dust on a shelf, they should grow and adapt as your business evolves. Regular updates keep your policies compliant and relevant while showing your team that you’re prioritising their needs.

Whether it’s updating a remote work policy to reflect hybrid working trends or revising safety protocols in response to new regulations, keeping policies fresh ensures your business stays ahead. And if the process feels daunting, our team can help you identify gaps, navigate legislative changes, and implement updates with confidence.

We Prevent Legal & Safety Risks for Better Workplace Policies and Procedures

Employment lawyers can assist employers in drafting and reviewing workplace policies and procedures, as well as provide advice and guidance on compliance with relevant laws and regulations. They can also represent employers in disputes that may arise from the application of these policies and procedures.

If you have any questions about workplace policies and procedures or would like assistance from an employment lawyer, please contact Workplace Wizards. We would be happy to help you with all your workplace policy needs.

Health and Safety Workplace Policies

All businesses have a duty of care to their employees to ensure that they are providing a safe working environment. This includes having in place appropriate workplace health and safety policies and procedures.

Employers must also have in place policies and procedures for dealing with health and safety risks, including accidents and incidents on company property. An employment lawyer can assist you in developing these policies and procedures to ensure they comply with the relevant legislation.

If you require assistance developing or reviewing your workplace health and safety policies, an employment lawyer can help. They can provide you with advice on what your obligations are and what needs to be included in your policies.

Our consultants can help provide in-depth assistance in developing and/or reviewing your workplace health and safety policies. They can provide you with advice on what your obligations are and help you to ensure your policies are compliant.

Discrimination and Sexual Harassment Workplace Policy

Discrimination and sexual harassment in the workplace is illegal and can have serious consequences for businesses if they are found to be in breach of the law. It is therefore essential that all businesses have in place policies that prohibit discrimination and harassment and set out clear procedures for dealing with any complaints which may arise.

Employers have a legal responsibility to ensure that their workplace policies and practices do not discriminate against employees or job applicants on the grounds of race, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation or religion. An employment lawyer can assist you in developing anti-discrimination policies that comply with the law. They can also advise you on how to investigate and deal with complaints of discrimination.

Workplace Wizards can assist you in developing anti-discrimination policies and procedures to ensure they comply with the relevant legislation. We can also recommend and enforce appropriate investigation and disciplinary actions when misconduct occurs.

Termination Workplace Policy

If your business is facing financial difficulties, you may need to consider making redundancies. Termination policy is a complex area of law and it is vital that you seek legal advice before taking any action.

An employment lawyer can assist you in developing redundancy policies and procedures, as well as advising you on the legal requirements that must be met. They can also help you negotiate with employee representatives and advise you on the consultation process.

Workplace Policies for Unfair Dismissal Claim

If you are an employer, you must ensure that your dismissal procedures comply with the law. An employment lawyer can assist you in drafting policies and procedures that are fair and compliant with the law. They can also advise you on how to conduct a fair dismissal process, including handling appeals.

Manage Employee Behaviour and Workplace Conduct

Employees are expected to behave in a professional manner at all times while at work. If an employee is not meeting this expectation, it can have a negative impact on morale and productivity. An employment lawyer can assist you in drafting policies and procedures that set out expectations for employee behaviour. They can also advise you on how to investigate and deal with complaints of workplace misconduct.

Drug and Alcohol Policy

Employers have a legal responsibility to ensure that their workplace is free from drugs and alcohol. An employment lawyer can assist you in drafting policies and procedures for drug and alcohol abuse that comply with the law. They can also advise you on how to investigate and deal with drug and alcohol concerns.

Dealing with Leave and Attendance Issues

Employees are entitled to certain types of leave, including vacation, sick, and maternity/paternity leave. If an employee is not following the policies around taking leave, it can disrupt workflow and negatively impact productivity. Our workplace lawyers at Workplace Wizards can assist you in drafting policies that set out the expectations around taking leave, and can also advise you on how to deal with employees who are not following the policies. Talk to our employment law consultants and lawyers today. We can help you identify key processes to manage leave entitlements and set out clear workplace procedures so employees can meet your organisation’s expectations.

Create a Safe, Positive and Inclusive Workplace Culture

Workplace policies and procedures are important for setting the standards of behaviour expected from employees. They also help to create a safe and positive workplace culture. A positive workplace culture is one where employees feel valued, respected and supported. It is important to create a workplace culture that is safe, positive and inclusive for all employees. Speak to our lawyers to see how we can assist you in drafting policies and procedures that will help to create a positive workplace culture. We can also advise you on how to investigate and deal with complaints of bullying, harassment and discrimination.

Insights from Our Client Success Stories

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Are Workplace Policies So Critical for Businesses?

Workplace policies provide the structure your business needs to function effectively. They set expectations, protect against legal risks, and foster a transparent, fair workplace. Without them, you’re more likely to face disputes, inconsistencies, and even potential litigation. Policies act as both a shield and a guide for businesses navigating complex workplace dynamics.

How Often Should We Update Our Workplace Policies?

Policies should be reviewed at least annually to ensure they reflect current legislation, industry standards, and operational changes. Additionally, any significant shifts in your business—like introducing remote work or responding to new laws—are good opportunities to revisit and update policies. Regular reviews demonstrate your commitment to staying compliant and addressing your employees’ evolving needs.

Are Workplace Policies One-Size-Fits-All?

No two businesses are the same, and neither should their policies be. A tailored approach ensures that policies address your unique risks, workforce, and operational goals. For example, a tech startup’s social media policy may look very different from that of a retail business. Customised policies are more practical, relevant, and easier to enforce.

How Do Policies Improve Workplace Culture?

Clear policies around inclusivity, safety, and conduct set expectations for professionalism and mutual respect. They also give employees confidence that issues will be handled consistently and fairly, boosting trust, morale, and engagement.

What Happens If a Business Doesn’t Have Formal Workplace Policies?

Without formal policies, businesses face increased risks of legal disputes, inconsistent decision-making, and employee dissatisfaction. A lack of clarity can lead to confusion over entitlements, unresolved grievances, and even safety hazards. Formal policies act as a safety net, protecting both employers and employees.

Positive Duty Under Respect @ Work Laws

Following the introduction of the Respect at Work reforms last year, employers will now have a positive obligation to take reasonable and proportionate measures to eliminate, as far as possible, unlawful sex discrimination including sexual harassment, sex-based harassment, hostile working environments and victimisation.

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If you’re an employer or business owner, you know that managing a workplace can be a challenge, even on the best of days. There’s a lot of moving parts to keep on top of. Between compliance issues, day-to-day operations, complaints, employee satisfaction, resolving disputes, fostering a positive workplace culture and more, it’s not unusual to find yourself stretched, thin and tired.  

Why Partner with Workplace Wizards?

When it comes to workplace policies, expertise matters. At Workplace Wizards, we simplify the process of creating and maintaining policies so you can focus on running your business. Here’s why businesses trust us:

We know compliance inside out. Our team is always on top of the latest laws, so your policies stay up-to-date.
Customised for your business: We tailor policies to fit your industry, workforce, and unique challenges.
Comprehensive support. From drafting to training, we handle the heavy lifting so you don’t have to.
No surprises. With our fixed-fee model, you get premium service at a predictable cost.

Let us help you turn workplace policies into a tool for success. Get in touch today to start building the foundation for a safer, more productive workplace.

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