The Bargaining Council also plays a role in settling disputes, such as unfair labour practices or unfair dismissals in a particular industry. Disputes must be referred to the relevant Bargaining Council for conciliation if a Bargaining Council exists in the sector. The Council appoints conciliators to act as conciliators to try to help the two parties negotiate a solution. If the conciliation does not resolve the dispute, either of the parties may refer the matter for arbitration to the Bargaining Council which has its own accredited arbitrators. The Bargaining Council dispute resolution procedure is similar to the CCMA dispute resolution procedure. A Bargaining Council or CCMA Arbitrator may make an award ordering the employer to pay unpaid annual leave for example, an amount owing, or make an appropriate award.

(See: Solving Disputes Under the LRA)