EDUGUIDE
Procedural Fairness Test
A step-by-step check to assess whether a decision was made fairly — and what to do if fairness is missing.
A step-by-step check to assess whether a decision was made fairly — and what to do if fairness is missing.
Procedural fairness (sometimes called natural justice) means a decision-maker must follow a fair and reasonable process — not just reach a defensible outcome. This test helps you quickly identify where a process broke down and what you can request next.
You must be clearly informed about the issue being considered. Surprise decisions fail fairness instantly.
If no → request written clarification before proceeding.
You have the right to know the evidence, reports, risks, or concerns informing a decision.
If no → ask: “Please provide the information relied upon so I can respond meaningfully.”
Fairness requires a genuine opportunity to provide your perspective before the decision is finalised.
If no → request a meeting or written opportunity to respond.
A decision-maker must be impartial. If they have a personal stake, conflict, or history of bias — fairness fails.
If you have concerns → you can request a different decision-maker or panel.
You are entitled to understand the reasons: What was considered? What evidence carried weight? Why this outcome?
If no → request a written statement of reasons.
Fair processes include consideration of reasonable adjustments, supports, or less restrictive options.
If no → ask what alternatives were assessed and why they were excluded.
If the answer to any question was “No”, you can request a corrective step. The process must be fair before the decision can be considered fair.
Ask for detail about the issue being considered.
You can ask for reports, assessments, or concerns being used.
Written or verbal responses both count.
A written explanation is part of fairness.
Move from procedural fairness to examining whether adjustments and supports meet dignity, access and equity standards.
The next guide checks whether required adjustments were in place before the suspension — a critical legal requirement under MO1125.