Work Health, Safety and Policy Officer - Alice Springs / Melbourne

About Us

Children’s Ground is working to create an environment where families realise their aspirations for the next generation of children to be free from trauma and suffering, enjoy equity and safety, be able to grow into adulthood happy and healthy, and have agency over their social, cultural, political, and economic life. To learn more about Children’s Ground and the work we do, visit our website : https : / / www.childrensground.org.au

An exciting opportunity exists for a Work Health and Safety (WHS) Officer to lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of WHS policies, risk management strategies, and safety initiatives. This role plays a key part in ensuring compliance with workplace health and safety legislation while fostering a strong safety culture across the organisation.

About the Job

The WHS and Policy & Procedure Officer plays a key role in ensuring compliance with Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) regulations and the effective development, implementation, and review of organisational policies and procedures. The position is responsible for providing WHS leadership, guidance, and support across all operational locations, while also overseeing the continuous improvement and governance of policies and procedures.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain WHS policies, procedures, and programs to ensure compliance with national and local legislation.
• Conduct WHS risk assessments and audits across all operational locations and provide recommendations for improvements.
• Coordinate and deliver WHS training and awareness programs for employees and management, ensuring a culturally appropriate approach for First Nations staff and communities.
• Support managers and staff in meeting their WHS obligations, providing advice on hazard identification, risk management, and injury prevention.
• Act as the primary point of contact for WHS compliance and liaise with regulatory bodies as required.
• Support the development of WHS committees in CA and the Top End, once established the role will be responsible for the facilitation of WHS committee meetings and engagement activities to promote a safety-first culture, including culturally responsive engagement strategies for First Nations staff.
• Ensure policies and procedures incorporate cultural safety principles and reflect the specific needs of First Nations communities and employees.
• Develop, review, and update organisational policies and procedures to align with legislative requirements and operational needs.

About You Key Selection Criteria Essential : Relevant qualifications in WH&S, Policy & Governance, Business Administration, or a related field. Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing WH&S policies and programs in a multi-location organisation. Strong knowledge of WH&S legislation, risk management principles, and best practices. Experience in policy and procedure development, governance, and implementation. Demonstrated ability to work in culturally sensitive environments and an understanding of the needs and challenges faced by First Nations communities. Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence and provide sound advice at all levels. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail. Ability to work autonomously and collaboratively across multiple locations. High-level organisational and project management skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and WH&S management systems. Desirable : Experience working in regional and remote environments. Understanding of the unique challenges associated with WHS compliance in Central Australia and the Top End. Previous experience in a not-for-profit, government, or community-based organisation. Qualifications in training and assessment or experience delivering WHS-related training. Lived or professional experience engaging with First Nations communities. Our recruitment process also requires you to complete a police check and hold a working with children’s check.