Unsuccessful Probation Letter

An Unsuccessful Probation Letter is used by an employer to inform an employee that their probation period has been unsuccessful and their employment is being terminated.

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Last updated December 18, 2024

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Suitable for Australia

Unsuccessful Probation Letter

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What is a unsuccessful probation letter?

It is a formal letter from an employer to an employee stating that the employee’s probation period was not successful and their employment will be terminated.
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When should you use a unsuccessful probation letter?

Use this letter at the end of an employee’s probation period if you have decided not to continue their employment due to unsatisfactory performance or conduct.
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What should be in a unsuccessful probation letter?

It should state the decision to terminate, provide the reason, outline the final working day, and include instructions for returning company property and any next steps.
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Frequently asked questions

What is a unsuccessful probation letter?

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When should you use a unsuccessful probation letter?

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What should be in a unsuccessful probation letter?

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Does this document help meet Fair Work Act obligations?

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What are the main limitations of this letter?

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How should I document the probation process?

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What steps should follow after issuing the letter?

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View Sample Unsuccessful Probation Letter

Unsuccessful Probation Letter
risk level indicator at Low level

The Legal Risk Score of a Unsuccessful Probation Letter Template is Low

Our legal team have marked this document as low risk considering:

  • There is a risk of inadequate documentation of specific performance issues, as the document mentions unsatisfactory performance but does not detail the criteria or examples, which could lead to misunderstandings or disputes about the reasons for termination.
  • The document lacks clarity on the support or corrective actions offered during the probation period, which might be perceived as a lack of opportunity for the employee to improve their performance.
  • The requirement for the return of company property is mentioned without specifying the exact items or the condition in which they must be returned, potentially leading to confusion or conflict at the end of employment.


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How Long Should My Employee’s Probation Period Be?
By Paul Taylor|Jun 19, 2019

How Long Should My Employee’s Probation Period Be?

An employee's probation period is a common part of many employment opportunities. Read this guide to find out what the legal requirements are.

What is a Notice to Show Cause?
By Gopi Giri|Sep 24, 2019

What is a Notice to Show Cause?

Received a show cause letter? Don’t panic! Read our guide to respond to a show cause notice effectively.

Next Steps When Your Employee Completes Probation
By Shantelle Dang|Feb 21, 2024

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When your employee completes probation, you must decide whether to confirm or terminate their employment. Find out what to take into consideration here.

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