PIoWRPacific Institute of Workplace RelationsFair Conditions At Work

Raising a complaint safely

PIoWR Learning Hub · about 5 minutes, including the quiz · For: Fishers, Seasonal Workers, Domestic Workers

In this lesson you will learn:

  • How to prepare before you complain
  • Which channels to use
  • How to protect yourself

Before you complain

1. Write it down. What happened, when, where, who was there. Do it the same day if you can.

2. Keep evidence. Photos of your contract and payslips, your own record of hours, messages, receipts. Keep a copy somewhere safe — with family, or in an email to yourself.

3. Know what you want. Unpaid wages? Safer conditions? To go home? Being clear helps whoever is helping you.

4. Talk to someone. A union, your Country Liaison Officer, or a trusted person. You do not have to do this alone.

Choose the right channel

  • At work: many problems can be fixed by talking to your supervisor or welfare officer. PALM employers must have a welfare and wellbeing officer.
  • Scheme channels: PALM grievance form or support service (1800 51 51 31); in New Zealand, Employment NZ (0800 200 088 for exploitation; you can report anonymously).
  • Government: your labour ministry or department, or the Fair Work Ombudsman in Australia (13 13 94).
  • For fishers: ILO C188 expects countries to have a way to settle disputes about work agreements, and port countries may act on complaints about vessels. Under WCPFC CMM 2024-04 (from 2028), when crew report forced labour or mistreatment after leaving a vessel, the port member must notify the flag member, which must investigate.
  • A union can raise the issue for you or with you.

Protect yourself

  • Your safety comes first. If you are in danger, get to a safe place and call emergency services (000 in Australia, 111 in New Zealand, or your local police).
  • Keep your documents — passport and ID — with you.
  • Be careful what you post online. Talk to a union or support service before going public.
  • Ask about confidentiality. Many services let you report without your name. Immigration NZ says all help through Employment NZ's exploitation reporting is confidential.
  • Write down every contact: who you spoke to, when, and what they said.

Key points

  • Write it down and keep evidence before you complain.
  • Use the right channel: workplace, scheme support, labour ministry, union.
  • Safety first; keep your documents; ask about confidentiality.

Self-check quiz. Choose your answers, then check them. The correct answers are shown after you check. Nothing is recorded.

1. What is a good first step before making a complaint?
2. In New Zealand, which number can you call to report migrant exploitation?
3. If you are in immediate danger in Australia, what should you call?
4. Why keep your own record of hours?

Sources

This lesson is general information, not legal advice. Checked 2 October 2026.

Pacific Institute of Workplace Relations — Fair Conditions At Work