Information for Witnesses

Witnesses are a critical part of our investigation process. Learn more about what to expect

If you witnessed a workplace incident or something that relates to an insurance claim, your employer or the insurer might ask you to be part of an investigation. The investigation aims to gather evidence (speaking to everyone involved and locating relevant documents), analyse the evidence, and make findings of fact. Once complete, the employer or insurer will decide on the next steps.

Why use an external investigator?

Organisations often call on us to conduct investigations because we’re independent, fair, and unbiased.

What is the investigation process?

Insurance Claims

If you’re a witness, the insured organisation may get in touch to seek your consent for us to contact you. It’s important to remember that your participation as a witness is voluntary, so you shouldn’t feel pressured. When we contact you, we’ll ask to set up an interview time. Interviews can be conducted in person, on the phone, or by video conferencing, depending on time requirements, location and COVID-19 restrictions.

All interviews are confidential, which is critical to ensure that your recollection is independent.

Workplace and ICAM investigations

If you’re a witness, we usually send you a letter informing you of the investigation. This happens after the organisation has asked us to investigate and given us a list of possible witnesses.

We can’t force you to be interviewed, although it may be a condition of your employment. You can seek clarification from your employer.

All interviews are confidential, which is critical to ensure that your recollection is independent.

What else should I know?

Our investigations focus on fairness to everyone involved
We will provide you with a transcript of the interview (if relevant)
We report our findings to the employer or insurer
You can have a support person with you during your interview, for example, a union representative, a family member or a close friend
Try to give us as much detail as possible in your interview because this helps to resolve the issue more efficiently
For employment issues, lying or deliberately not giving us relevant information may be misconduct. Your employer may take disciplinary action against you (including terminating your employment)
For insurance issues, lying or deliberately not giving us relevant information may be insurance fraud. This may lead to civil or criminal legal action being taken against you
After your interview, you can contact us with any questions or further information. We’ll let you know how to get in touch

For more information about insurance investigations, see the Insurance Council of Australia’s General Insurance Code of Practice.

For more information about workplace investigations and your rights, see the Fair Work Ombudsman’s website.