Conciliation is often used interchangeably with Mediation due to their similarities. Conciliation allows a more investigative approach. Such a process allows the third party to investigate employers once an employee has lodged a claim against them in relation to a legislative breach.
The Fair Work Commission is often used to a common form of conciliation. If parties have exhausted all efforts to resolve an issue, either on their own or with the assistance of a mediator they will seek to use conciliation.
Unlike a mediator, the conciliator will play a more active role in the conflict resolution process. They have the ability to provide assistance, encourage parties and to intervene where they feel they need to.