How to Discipline, Counsel and Terminate Staff

Disciplining staff is one of the most difficult responsibilities a manager will face. Yet avoiding these conversations can do even more harm. When poor performance or unacceptable behaviour goes unchecked, it damages morale, increases risk, and undermines your credibility as a leader.

That is why learning how to discipline, counsel and terminate staff is essential for anyone who supervises others—whether you lead a small team in a rural business or manage staff in a larger organisation.

This practical course will teach you how to:

• Identify the difference between misconduct, performance issues, and behavioural concerns

• Set clear expectations and create a paper trail that supports your decisions

• Hold counselling conversations early to prevent escalation

• Deliver formal warnings that comply with the Fair Work Act and your internal policies

• Terminate staff professionally, legally, and respectfully

• Protect your workplace culture and avoid unfair dismissal claims

You will not just learn how to discipline, counsel and terminate staff from a legal perspective—you will also build the confidence to manage these situations with clarity and compassion.

Strong leadership does not mean being harsh. It means setting boundaries and following through. When done properly, employee discipline strengthens trust, improves team performance, and creates a safer work environment for everyone.

This course is especially useful for employers in rural areas, where teams often work closely together, and managing staff well is essential to both productivity and community relationships.