MINISTRY OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS

Trade Dispute Tribunal is a quas-judicial body set up under the Trade Dispute Act [CAP 162] to determine trade dispute cases and to make an Award. Trade Disputes are grievances of an employee against employer, or workers against workers. The grievances arising from contract of employment, disciplines, the allocation of work, union membership, facilities for officials of trade union, and machinery of negotiation are some but not an exhaustive list of trade dispute. 

We determine the dispute within 3 months and the filing fee is VT10,000 and counter claim fee is VT5,000.

Lawyers are not permitted to represent a party, and the rules of evidence does not apply. 

Our office is operated by the Adjudicator and two officers appointed by the Judicial Service Commission. The role of the Adjudicator is to presides over trade dispute cases and make decisions. 

OUR VISION STATEMENT: 

An independent, impartial, accessible, efficient and effective trade dispute tribunal settlement system in the Republic of Vanuatu. 

OUR MISSION STATEMENT: 

1. To ensure that workers and employers have equitable accessibility to the Trade Dispute Tribunal Services,
2. To establish a fair and impartial procedures and process for resolving trade disputes,
3. To be an efficient and effective quasi-judicial court to preside and make awards within 3 months, and
4. Bring finality to Trade Disputes.