Unfair Dismissal Claim Cost Calculator
Estimate the cost of an unfair dismissal claim. Complexity and how the firm charges (fixed fee vs hourly) are the main drivers. These are indicative estimates only, always confirm fees with the firm before engaging.
Your unfair dismissal claim details
Your estimate sits within the typical range.
An unfair dismissal application has a strict 21-day deadline and a small Fair Work filing fee, and many claims settle at conciliation without a hearing, keeping costs low. Ask about fixed fees or no-win-no-fee for employment matters.
💰 Ways to save
- Ask for a written costs agreement and an estimate up front, you are entitled to one, and it prevents bill shock.
- Ask whether a fixed fee is available for your matter, it caps your exposure where the firm offers it.
- Do the groundwork yourself, gather documents and a clear timeline, so you are not paying lawyer rates for admin.
How we estimate this
An unfair dismissal claim in Australia costs a small Fair Work filing fee (around $80 in 2026) to lodge, plus legal fees of roughly $1,500 to $5,000 if it settles at conciliation, rising to $10,000 to $15,000 if it goes to a full hearing.
Pricing reviewed: November 2026.
Understanding unfair dismissal claim costs in Australia
An unfair dismissal claim in Australia costs a small Fair Work filing fee (around $80 in 2026) to lodge, plus legal fees of roughly $1,500 to $5,000 if it settles at conciliation, rising to $10,000 to $15,000 if it goes to a full hearing.
An unfair dismissal claim is lodged with the Fair Work Commission within 21 days of dismissal for a small filing fee. Many settle at conciliation, keeping legal costs modest; a full hearing is where costs climb.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an unfair dismissal claim cost in Australia?
A small Fair Work filing fee (around $80 in 2026) plus legal fees of roughly $1,500 to $5,000 if it settles at conciliation, and $10,000 to $15,000 for a full hearing.
What is the deadline for an unfair dismissal claim?
21 days from the date the dismissal takes effect, a strict limit. Lodging with the Fair Work Commission is a small filing fee, and many claims settle at conciliation before any hearing.
Are you a law firm?
Everyone on this page is working out what unfair dismissal claim costs because they are ready to hire. Put your business right beneath the calculator, in your state, so you are who they find. From $50/mo.