Areas of Expertise
Dispute & Grievance Resolution
Lea has resolved disputes across the entire spectrum of industries within the coverage of the Fair Work Commission and as a solicitor. This occurred in industry wide disputes and at the local level involving large national employers as well as small to medium single employers. In her Tribunal work Lea always prioritised the resolution of disputes and grievances with efficiency.
Mediation & Conciliation
Lea has had extensive mediation training and experience as a member of the Fair Work Commission. She has conciliated thousands of applications to successful resolution.
Investigations
Lea conducted many investigations at the Fair Work Commission which led to resolution of disputed issues through settlement or findings and orders. Investigations of possible misconduct and maladministration were her core work at the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission where she published 28 single and 6 joint reports whilst she was the Commissioner for Integrity.
Identifying Misconduct & Corruption
Identifying misconduct or corruption is often essential to hearing applications for unfair dismissal. Lea has heard and resolved thousands of such applications. Lea is adept at identifying the causes of misconduct & corruption and the institutional risks that allow or encourage such behaviours. This was her core function at the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission, where she made recommendations for institutional change to prevent future occurrences.
Identifying Adverse Cultural Issues
In the course of resolving a dispute it often becomes apparent that there is an underlying cultural issue at the workplace which requires resolution. On many occasions throughout her Tribunal service Lea has identified this need & instigated processes of cultural change through collaboration & negotiation.
Organisational & Cultural Change
Lea knows that the most effective and enduring organisational change is achieved through collaboration and consultation with those who it affects most. Most recently, through investigation & reporting conducted by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission, Lea identified the need for cultural & operational change in the New South Wales Police Force. Lea delivered, through cooperative processes and collaboration with senior officers, significant beneficial organisational change in the New South Wales Police Force.
Speaking Engagements
Lea is a talented speaker, with varied experience of speaking at professional, employee & employer association gatherings & training events, universities & community outreach organisations. She enjoys sharing insights & advice with colleagues, other professionals & students.