Job Description
Applications close at 5:00pm on Friday, 7 August 2026
The Dorset Council are seeking a WHS Advisor for a fixed-term period of up to two years to support and strengthen Council’s Work Health and Safety framework through the review, development and implementation of systems, processes and tools.
This is a hands-on role that will undertake a comprehensive assessment of Council’s WHS legislative compliance, develop a prioritised improvement program for endorsement by the Executive Leadership Team and lead the implementation of key initiatives, including a WHS management software solution and an enhanced WHS management system
The role will work closely with managers and employees to help meet WHS obligations by providing practical day to day advice and support across the organisation, including in relation to WHS audits, inspections, reviews, reporting, training and induction processes.
Key Responsibilities and Performance Requirements
- Provide advice to ELT, managers and employees on WHS legislative obligations, compliance requirements and safe systems of work.
- Undertake a review of Council’s WHS framework, identify compliance gaps and improvement opportunities, and develop and lead the implementation of a prioritised WHS Action Plan.
- Establish, implement and continuously improve Council’s WHS management system, including policies, procedures, risk management tools, reporting mechanisms and supporting documentation.
- Lead the procurement, implementation and ongoing administration of Council’s WHS management software system in collaboration with key internal stakeholders, ensuring it supports legislative compliance, reporting, risk management, operational efficiency and practical use.
- Monitor changes in WHS legislation, regulatory requirements and industry practice, and recommend practical improvements to Council’s systems, processes and operations.
- Develop and deliver WHS training, induction and awareness initiatives for employees, volunteers and contractors.
- Provide practical advice, coaching and support to leaders and employees to strengthen WHS capability and promote consistent application of Council’s safety systems and processes.
- Coordinate and undertake WHS audits, inspections, reviews and compliance monitoring activities to assess the effectiveness of Council’s WHS management system and identify opportunities for improvement.
- Support workplace investigations, ensuring incidents are appropriately reported, investigated and analysed, root causes are identified and corrective actions are implemented and monitored.
- Monitor and report on WHS performance, trends, corrective actions and compliance obligations, providing advice and recommendations to managers and the ELT.
- Apply a staged capability building approach that supports leaders and employees to progressively take greater ownership of WHS responsibilities.
- Influence and engage employees at all levels of the organisation to foster a positive safety culture where risks are proactively identified, managed and monitored.
- Develop practical, risk-based solutions that support operational requirements while ensuring compliance with legislative and organisational obligations.
- Coordinate the effective operation of Council’s WHS Committee, including meeting administration, monitoring actions and supporting the continuous improvement of workplace health and safety outcomes.
Skills and Knowledge Essential
- Demonstrated experience in a WHS advisory, coordination or similar role with responsibility for implementing and improving WHS systems, compliance frameworks and risk management practices.
- Sound knowledge of WHS legislation, regulations and contemporary WHS practice, and the ability to apply these in a practical operational environment.
- Experience developing, implementing or improving WHS systems, policies, procedures and risk management practices.
- Experience undertaking workplace investigations, risk assessments, audits and compliance monitoring activities.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret legislation and provide clear, practical and risk-based advice to leaders and employees.
- Experience supporting organisational change and building capability through coaching, training and stakeholder engagement.
- Strong planning and project management skills, with the ability to prioritise competing demands and deliver outcomes.
- Well-developed written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare reports, procedures and training materials, and communicate technical information in plain English.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify practical solutions that support both compliance and operational needs.
- Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office applications and the ability to work effectively with business systems and technology platforms. Desirable
- Experience within local government or a similarly regulated operational environment.
- Experience implementing or administering a WHS management system and/or WHS software platform.
- Experience supporting workers compensation, injury management or return to work processes.
- Experience facilitating training, workshops or organisational capability building initiatives.
Qualifications and Licences Essential (or the ability to quickly acquire)
- Certificate IV or higher qualification in Work Health and Safety or a related discipline, or equivalent demonstrated experience.
- Current driver’s licence.
- Ability to obtain and maintain required checks relevant to the role. Desirable
- ICAM, Lead Auditor or equivalent incident investigation or auditing training.
- Return to Work Coordinator, Injury Management or related qualification.
- Membership of a relevant professional association.
What’s on offer:
- A permanent full-time position with some flexibility to work from home once established within the role
- Annual Salary of $105,265 p.a. negotiable, plus 12% Superannuation
- Rostered Day Off Structure (work a 9 day fortnight or 19 day month)
- Relocation and/or travel allowance, negotiable based on experience and travel requirements
- Ongoing professional development support opportunities
- Access to Employee Assistance Program and Health and Wellbeing initiatives
- An opportunity to contribute to Council’s journey to becoming a modern and innovative organisation
- Enjoy the unique lifestyle of North East Tasmania, offering affordable living, stunning natural landscapes and a strong sense of community
TO APPLY: Contact us via admin@dorsetec.org.au if you would like to know more, or to apply for this role.