Role overview
Work Health and Safety Managers (OSCA 111633) lead the development, implementation, and ongoing management of workplace health and safety programs within Australian organisations. These professionals ensure compliance with work health and safety legislation, which varies slightly between Australian states and territories but follows harmonised national principles. They typically manage dedicated WHS teams or functions, develop strategic approaches to risk management, and advocate for safety culture within their organisations. The role requires balancing legal compliance with practical workplace safety outcomes across diverse operational environments.
Key tasks in practice
Work Health and Safety Managers perform diverse responsibilities that blend strategic leadership with operational oversight:
- Managing WHS business unit operations, including team leadership and resource allocation
- Developing and controlling WHS budgets and expenditure
- Leading organisational responses to workplace incidents, injuries, and regulatory investigations
- Creating, monitoring, and evaluating WHS management strategies, policies, and plans
- Ensuring organisational practices comply with Australian WHS legislation and standards
- Advocating for work health and safety considerations in broader organisational decision-making
Skill level explanation
As a skill level 1 occupation, Work Health and Safety Manager positions require highly specialised managerial capabilities. This classification indicates that the role typically demands a bachelor degree or higher qualification, supplemented by substantial relevant experience. Many professionals in this field hold specific qualifications in occupational health and safety, risk management, or related disciplines. The skill level reflects the complexity of interpreting legislation, managing organisational risk, and leading safety culture transformation across Australian workplaces.
Industry context
Work Health and Safety Managers operate across numerous industries in Australia, with significant presence in sectors identified by ANZSIC codes including public administration (7520), regulation-based services (7510), employment services (7530), and other business support services (8609). These professionals work in both public and private sector organisations of sufficient size to warrant dedicated WHS leadership. The role has grown in importance following the harmonisation of Australian work health and safety laws, with organisations across mining, construction, healthcare, manufacturing, and government requiring specialised compliance management.