Performance Improvement Plan (PIP)

A Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) in Queensland Health is a structured framework used by line managers to support employees who are not meeting the expected standards of their role.

  • The areas requiring improvement

  • Sets specific and measurable goals

  • Outlines the actions and support provided

  • Establishes a timeframe for review.

The PIP is designed to be constructive, helping employees address performance gaps, develop required skills, and achieve sustainable improvement while ensuring alignment with Hospital and Health Service objectives and professional standards.

Why it's important

Understanding the PIP process allows you to:

  • Address performance issues early

  • Provide clear expectations and measurable goals

  • Support staff development

  • Ensure compliance with Queensland Health policies.

Initiating a PIP

Initiating a Performance Improvement Plan is about preparing to start the process—identifying ongoing performance concerns, gathering evidence, and drafting the plan.

Select each number in order from the diagram to discover each PIP stage.

Steps in the PIP process

There are 7 steps in a Performance Improvement Plan that begin with the formal meeting with the employee and cover the full process of setting goals, providing support, monitoring progress, and reviewing outcomes.

  1. Identify performance concerns

  2. Prepare the plan

  3. Meet with the employee

  4. Agree on support and resources

  5. Document the plan

  6. Monitor progress

  7. Review and decide next steps

Positive Performance Management Policy (HR Policy G9)

See Queensland Health’s Positive performance management HR Policy G9 for more information on when a Performance Improvement Plan should be considered and a checklist to help prepare and conduct a PIP.

PIP is not punitive—it’s a structured, supportive tool to help employees succeed while maintaining Queensland Health’s professional and performance standards.