External or Internal Workplace Investigations

What are the benefits of conducting an external or internal workplace investigations.

Often when a complaint is made an employer must decide whether to deal with the matter internally or engage an external workplace investigations expert. While there is a cost to engaging an external workplace investigator getting the job done right the first time every time is important.  In a workplace investigation the lives of the parties to the complaint and the business are at stake.

A poorly conducted investigation can be detrimental to all.

Here are some of the benefits of engaging an external expert

Independence and Impartiality

External investigators bring objectivity as there are;.

• No prior relationships with staff
• No internal politics or bias
• No perceived “agenda”

This is critical in avoiding any perception that there could be a predetermined outcome, this can be seen to undermine internal investigations.

Increased Credibility and Trust

Findings from an external investigator can carry greater weight.

• Employees are more likely to cooperate honestly
• Outcomes are seen as fair and transparent
• Reduces claims of “cover-ups” or favouritism

This is particularly important in the investigation of senior-level employees or sensitive matters.

Reduced Legal Risk

External investigations help protect organisations legally.

• Demonstrates procedural fairness
• Shows “reasonable steps” were taken
• Provides defensible processes and documentation

This is especially valuable if matters escalate to tribunals, courts, or regulators.

Specialist Expertise

Professional investigators are trained in:

• Evidence gathering and assessment
• Witness interviewing techniques
• Managing conflicting accounts
• Applying legal and procedural standards

Internal managers often lack this level of investigative skill and experience, but be careful that you choose an investigator that has the skills and experience to carry out a comprehensive investigations.  It is always a good idea to check the investigator background and qualifications

Expert Handling of Complex or Sensitive Matters

External investigators are ideal where issues involve:

• Senior executives
• Allegations of misconduct or corruption
• Discrimination or serious complaints
• Multiple parties or conflicting evidence

An experienced and qualified investigator can navigate complexity without internal pressure or influence.

Protection of Workplace Relationships

Internal investigations can damage team dynamics.

• Managers investigating their own staff creates tension and may be a conflict of interest
• Perceptions of bias can erode morale
• Ongoing working relationships may be compromised

External investigators act as a neutral buffer, preserving workplace cohesion.

Confidentiality and Discretion

External investigators often provide stronger safeguards.

• Reduced risk of internal gossip or leaks
• Independent handling of sensitive information
• Clear separation from organisational hierarchy

Faster and More Efficient (in many cases)

In most cases an external investigation may save valuable time:

• External investigators are focused solely on the investigation
• They may not have competing operational duties
• They have established methodologies sand processes

Clear, Professional Reporting

External investigators deliver:

• Structured findings based on evidence
• Clear reasoning and analysis
• Recommendations aligned with legal standards

This reduces ambiguity and supports better decision-making.

Protects Leadership from Conflict of Interest

Leaders avoid being placed in difficult positions:

• Investigating their own decisions or colleagues
• Appearing biased or self-serving
• Being drawn into disputes

External investigators create distance and integrity in leadership decisions.

There are times where Internal Investigations may be the preferred option such as;

For balance, internal investigations can work where:

• The issue is minor or low risk
• No conflicts of interest exist
• Trained internal investigators are available
• Speed is critical and complexity is low

Key Takeaway

External investigations are not just about outsourcing — they are about credibility, fairness, and risk management.

In high-risk or sensitive matters, the question is often not:
“Can we investigate internally?”
But rather:

“Will it stand up to scrutiny from the Fair Work Commission or a Court?”

AWPTI can provide you with complete external investigations services conducted by AWPTI Principal Phil O’Brien (link to bio)