Independent, Confidential and Impartial Support for AUT staff
Workplace concerns can be difficult to navigate — whether you're unsure how to approach a situation, want an independent perspective, or need help preparing for a conversation.
A safe, independent space to talk — no formal complaint needed.
Every situation is different
Sometimes a single conversation is enough. Other times, additional support may be helpful.
Support is tailored to your circumstances and may include:
Independent conversations
A confidential space to talk openly and gain perspective.
Guidance and coaching
Practical support to think through situations and possible approaches.
Preparing for difficult conversations
Build clarity and confidence before a conversation.
Facilitated discussions
Where appropriate, support more constructive communication.
Options and pathways
Understand what options and pathways may be available.
Referral to other support
Connect with another appropriate support service where needed.
Often, you'll leave with greater clarity, confidence and a better understanding of your options.
A safe, independent space to talk
As the independent service, Space to Talk provides a safe and confidential environment where staff can discuss workplace concerns openly. We help people understand their situation, explore possible pathways and access support that is appropriate to their needs.
How it works
Reach out
Contact us by phone, email or online.
Have a conversation
We'll take the time to understand your situation and concerns, and work out the practical details together.
Be matched with an advisor
Connect with an independent advisor to support you.
Determine the best path
Together, we'll explore the options that are right for you — all in confidence.
Delivered independently by ICRA
ICRA is an independent service provider with experience supporting people to navigate workplace concerns and difficult situations.
For AUT staff, our role through Space to Talk is simple: to provide a confidential, impartial space to talk, gain perspective and understand your options.
Confidentiality is central to how we work.
We'll always ask your permission before sharing anything that identifies you, or anything you've told us in confidence. Any feedback we give AUT is shared anonymously. Confidentiality has limits, though. In rare cases we may need to share information without asking first — where this is required or permitted by law, or where we believe it's necessary to prevent or reduce a serious threat to health, safety or wellbeing.
Before we do, we think carefully: how serious is the concern, how likely and severe is the harm, does it suggest an ongoing pattern of risk, and is sharing really necessary to keep the right people informed? If we do need to share something, we'll share only what's necessary, with people who need to know or can help — and wherever safe and practical, we'll talk with you first.
Independence gives you space to talk openly.
Space to Talk is provided by ICRA, independently of AUT and its team. That means you can come to us directly to talk through a workplace concern. You don't need to go through your manager or HR, and we don't act on behalf of AUT.
We're here to give you an independent perspective, help you think through your situation and explore your options, so you can make informed decisions about what feels right for you.
Impartiality means we're here to listen, not take sides.
We don't advocate for you, AUT or anyone else involved. We won't tell you who's right or wrong, investigate what happened or make decisions about the outcome.
Instead, we'll listen without judgement, help you look at the situation from different perspectives and support you to understand your options. You remain in control of what, if anything, you decide to do next.
Space to Talk provides a confidential space to talk through your concerns with an experienced independent practitioner.
FAQs
Ready to talk things through in a safe space?
You don't need to have all the answers before reaching out. Sometimes the best first step is simply having a conversation.