Building the foundations of safety leadership

South Australian Business News • Health and safety representative

Quintin Robinson

Friday, October 10th 2025

Undertaking the Health and Safety Representative (HSR) Year 1 course offers a range of valuable benefits — both for the individual and the workplace.

Legal empowerment: The course equips HSRs with knowledge of their powers under the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act, including issuing Provisional Improvement Notices (PINs) and directing unsafe work to cease.

Confidence in representation: Participants gain the skills to effectively represent their work group in health and safety matters, fostering stronger communication with management.

Enhanced knowledge: The course covers hazard identification, risk assessment, incident investigation, and consultation processes — building a solid foundation in WHS principles.

Professional development: Completing the course can be a stepping stone to further WHS roles or qualifications, enhancing career prospects.

Improved safety culture: Trained HSRs contribute to a proactive safety environment, encouraging early reporting and resolution of hazards.

Legal compliance: Having trained HSRs helps employers meet their obligations under WHS legislation, particularly around consultation and worker representation.

Reduced incidents: With better hazard awareness and risk management, workplaces often see a reduction in injuries and near misses.

Stronger collaboration: HSRs act as a bridge between workers and management, promoting trust and shared responsibility for safety.

Need support with Training for elected HSRs?

At the SA Business Chamber, we provide Safework-approved training for HSRs who are elected by their peers to represent them on health and safety issues.

HSR Year 1 Training is a 5‑day course for newly-elected or re-elected organisational Health and Safety Representatives.

If you’re considering to become a HSR or need specific details about the role in your region, please contact our Training team at training@sabusinesschamber.com.au.

Check out HSR Year 1 Training