Maria has 15 years experience as an investigator and mediator.
Investigative work:
Maria has conducted several hundred investigations into conduct in the workplace, including allegations of unfair treatment, discrimination, bullying, and harassment.
In addition she has investigated human rights complaints in the consumer, education, accommodation, volunteer organisation, and health sectors.
Maria is an expert at formulating questions, without leading witnesses, in order to elicit the necessary information. She is adept at analysing evidence and applying the relevant law.
Mediation work:
Maria has mediated disputes involving employees or clients, from many sectors, including
- Education
- Government
- Health
- Manufacturing
- Retail
- Sport
- Tourism
- Voluntary sector
When contacted by a party involved in a dispute, Maria likes to initially meet all the people involved individually to find out what their needs and concerns are. A mediation meeting can then be arranged in pleasant surroundings at a time that suits everyone. Maria considers that mediation should occur in a safe and controlled environment where people can talk honestly and safely about their issues. Parties are encouraged to bring someone to provide support, whether a friend or an advocate.
Maria will always endeavour to progress things as quickly as possible, as unresolved conflict can take its toll, causing stress and all that goes with it – poor concentration, lack of judgment, absence from work, poor sleep and appetite. Over time health and emotional well being can be badly affected, leading to depression, obsessive thinking, and problems with drinking, eating or gambling. All relationships can be adversely affected, not just those where the conflict started.
In employment situations, there can be considerable financial cost through absenteeism, disharmony, employees making mistakes, and eventually people leaving and taking legal action.
Mediation can be a quick and a very cost effective way to put an end to a dispute. It can bring relief for people who have been involved in a dispute for some time, re-establishing communication and restoring healthy relationships.
Fee:
Mediation: Maria offers an initial consultation meeting free of charge, with no obligation. Thereafter the fee for mediation work is $200.00 per hour + GST.
Investigation: Initial consultation is offered free of charge, with no obligation. The fee for investigation work is $150.00 per hour + GST
Contact Maria
|