First Workplace Investigations
Independent. Precise. Defensible Workplace Investigations.
Providing expert solutions for workplace issues, supporting businesses across Australia.
When would you need a Workplace Investigator?
When you receive allegations of inappropriate behaviour or misconduct against a staff member, whether raised by another employee, contractor, student, customer, patient, client, or any other person engaged in or performing work on behalf of your business or undertaking, the organisation has a responsibility to respond promptly, appropriately, and in accordance with its legal and policy obligations.
At the outset, consideration should be given to the seriousness of the allegations, the potential risk to safety or wellbeing, whether the facts are disputed, and whether the matter may lead to disciplinary action, reputational damage, or regulatory scrutiny. Where allegations involve serious misconduct (such as bullying, harassment, discrimination, sexual harassment, fraud, or assault), senior staff, vulnerable persons (including patients or students), or where there is a conflict of interest internally, a formal and independent workplace investigation may be required.
Is there a legal requirement that I act upon the complaint?
A workplace investigator should be appointed where the matter cannot be resolved informally, where procedural fairness must be demonstrated, or where the organisation requires an impartial assessment of evidence to support defensible decision-making. Engaging an experienced investigator ensures the process is fair, objective, confidential, and conducted in accordance with applicable workplace laws and organisational policies.
Is there a legal requirement that I act upon the complaint?
When is an external workplace investigator preferable to an internal HR investigation?
Whilst a senior in-house HR practitioner may feel comfortable handling ‘non-complex’ matters involving junior to mid-tier staff, engaging an independent investigator is the preferred approach for more complex cases. This includes matters with multiple complainants, respondents, or witnesses, cases involving senior members of the organisation or matters with voluminous materials to review. Further, when investigations involve senior managers, the executive team, or the board, it is necessary to ensure impartiality, transparency, and fairness that the individual overseeing the investigation is positioned at a sufficiently senior level within the organisation. This is often not possible, and in such circumstances, consideration should be given to appointing an external investigator.
Why First Workplace Investigations?
First Workplace Investigations is led by Mary Crean, a legally qualified and highly regarded workplace investigator entrusted to conduct complex, sensitive, and high-stakes investigations. Mary is recognised for her independence, disciplined methodology, and ability to deliver clear, well-reasoned findings in matters where procedural integrity is essential.
Mary brings a depth of legal insight and investigative expertise that ensures every investigation is conducted with precision, fairness, and unwavering objectivity. Her approach is structured and exacting, with careful attention given to the proper testing of evidence, the credibility of witnesses, and the application of procedural fairness at every stage. The resulting findings are clear, defensible, and capable of withstanding the closest scrutiny.
She remains personally responsible for each investigation, providing calm, authoritative guidance and measured communication throughout the process. Her ability to manage sensitive matters with discretion, professionalism, and sound judgement provides reassurance to organisations navigating complex workplace issues.
Mary’s work reflects the standards expected of experienced legal professionals entrusted with independent fact-finding. Her investigations provide organisations with the clarity, confidence, and assurance required to make informed and defensible decisions.
First Workplace Investigations is engaged by organisations that recognise the importance of independence, procedural rigour, and the careful handling of matters where outcomes carry significant consequence.
Why First Workplace Investigations?
First Workplace Investigations is led by Mary Crean, a legally qualified and highly regarded workplace investigator entrusted to conduct complex, sensitive, and high-stakes investigations. Mary is recognised for her independence, disciplined methodology, and ability to deliver clear, well-reasoned findings in matters where procedural integrity is essential.
Mary brings a depth of legal insight and investigative expertise that ensures every investigation is conducted with precision, fairness, and unwavering objectivity. Her approach is structured and exacting, with careful attention given to the proper testing of evidence, the credibility of witnesses, and the application of procedural fairness at every stage. The resulting findings are clear, defensible, and capable of withstanding the closest scrutiny.
She remains personally responsible for each investigation, providing calm, authoritative guidance and measured communication throughout the process. Her ability to manage sensitive matters with discretion, professionalism, and sound judgement provides reassurance to organisations navigating complex workplace issues.
Mary’s work reflects the standards expected of experienced legal professionals entrusted with independent fact-finding. Her investigations provide organisations with the clarity, confidence, and assurance required to make informed and defensible decisions.
First Workplace Investigations is engaged by organisations that recognise the importance of independence, procedural rigour, and the careful handling of matters where outcomes carry significant consequence.
Mary Crean - Principal at First Workplace Investigations
LL.B Law (Hons) 2:1 England 1995
Admission as a Barrister Gray’s Inn, London 1996
Juris Doctorate Law (post graduate) University of Queensland 2010
Admission as a Solicitor Queensland 2010
Licensed Investigator (Certificate III)
Class 1 Security Provider – Licensed issued by the Queensland Government
Member of the Australian Institute of Professional Investigators
Working with Children Card for NSW and Blue Card for Queensland
Thirteen years practice at the independent Bar in England between 1997 and 2009
Mary has specialised as a Workplace Investigator since 2012 and brings extensive experience conducting investigations across ASX-listed organisations, government agencies, the mining and resources sector, education, healthcare, not-for-profit organisations, and private enterprises throughout Australia.
She is regularly entrusted with sensitive and complex matters across diverse operational and regulatory environments, and has a deep understanding of the governance, legal, and reputational considerations relevant to each sector. Her experience spans investigations involving senior executives, professional staff, operational personnel, and matters involving external stakeholders.
In addition, Mary conducts Reportable Conduct Investigations, applying the heightened procedural rigour and independence required when matters involve vulnerable persons, statutory obligations, and external oversight.
Her breadth of experience enables her to quickly understand organisational contexts, manage sensitive issues with confidence and discretion, and deliver clear, well-reasoned findings that support informed and defensible decision-making.
Ready to Resolve Your Workplace Challenges?
First Workplace Investigations
PO Box 1272
Cleveland QLD 4163
© First Workplace Investigations 2026
Website Build by Afterimage Websites
Transforming Workplace Challenges into Opportunities
We understand that workplace challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, but they also present unique opportunities for growth and improvement. By leveraging expert guidance and tailored solutions, we help you turn these challenges into stepping stones for enhanced productivity, employee engagement, and business success. Together, we can navigate obstacles with confidence and unlock new avenues for progress and innovation.
First Workplace Investigations
Providing expert solutions for workplace issues, supporting businesses across Australia.
0419 190 12
Transforming Workplace Challenges into Opportunities
We understand that workplace challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, but they also present unique opportunities for growth and improvement. By leveraging expert guidance and tailored solutions, we help you turn these challenges into stepping stones for enhanced productivity, employee engagement, and business success. Together, we can navigate obstacles with confidence and unlock new avenues for progress and innovation.
Our Core Services
Workplace Investigations
We provide thorough, unbiased investigations into workplace harassment, misconduct, and policy breaches. Our expert approach ensures fairness, compliance, and effective resolution.
Cultural Reviews
Improve team cohesion and productivity with an in-depth review of your workplace culture. We identify areas for growth and provide actionable recommendations to foster a positive and supportive work environment.
Workplace Mediations
Our mediation services help employees and teams resolve disputes, rebuild trust, and develop long-lasting solutions. We guide all parties towards mutual understanding and effective conflict resolution.
External HR Support
From award compliance to staff performance management, we offer hands-on HR support to help you navigate everyday workplace challenges and ensure legal compliance.
Why Choose Us?
We’re Here to Help
At First Workplace Solutions, we specialise in managing complex workplace grievances in a professional, sensitive and timely manner. Mary Crean has over a decade of dedicated HR investigative experience and fifteen years of legal practice as a court advocate, which brings a unique set of skills to manage workplace conflict.
How It Works
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Share your workplace challenges with us.
Get Tailored Solutions
Receive expert advice and actionable recommendations.
Transform Your Workplace
Achieve a compliant, harmonious, and productive work environment.
Trusted by Businesses Across Australia
About First Workplace Solutions
At First Workplace Solutions, we are committed to helping businesses resolve workplace challenges with professionalism, impartiality, and integrity. With over 20 years of experience, we’ve helped organisations create healthier, more productive environments.
Experienced
20+ years of expertise in workplace investigations, cultural reviews, and mediation.
Client Reach
Serving businesses of all sizes across Australia.
Core Values
Integrity, confidentiality, and tailored solutions for every organisation.
What Sets Us Apart
Balanced Approach
We deliver impartial investigations that prioritise both compliance and your organisation’s culture, ensuring fair and thorough outcomes that align with your values.
Tailored Solutions
Our approach is not one-size-fits-all. We customise each investigation to address the unique challenges and dynamics of your workplace.
Proven Track Record
With years of experience handling complex workplace issues across diverse industries, we have a reputation for delivering reliable, professional, and timely solutions you can trust.