The Direction du Travail et de l'Emploi (work and employment department), operating under the authority of the government, sets the rules in relation to employment law in New Caledonia. Information about these rules and any updates are published on the Department's website and in other publications.

The Department is responsible for ensuring that employment law is observed and implements policies to prevent risks in the workplace and to improve working conditions. This task is carried out by the Inspection du Travail (works inspectorate).

The Department also plays a role in encouraging and improving social dialogue and in preventing and resolving individual and collective disputes in the workplace. It can provide both parties with advisers and expert arbitrators so that amicable agreements can be reached.

The Department monitors collective-bargaining procedures. It officially records collective agreements and develops these if need be.

The Department implements the government of New Caledonia's policy on employment which aims in particular to encourage and protect local employment opportunities. It is responsible for processing applications for work permits for overseas workers, applications for short time work and declarations concerning the obligation to employ disabled workers.

Finally, the Department provides an advisory service, on-site or by telephone, to employers and employees, on all matters under its responsibility.