Risen Star College of Technology & Business
What Does a Work Health and Safety (WHS) Officer Do?
Admin | May 10, 2026
Leading Safety In The Workplace
Every organisation has a responsibility to provide a safe and healthy workplace. Effective safety leadership plays an important role in protecting workers, contractors, visitors, and the wider community.
A Work Health and Safety (WHS) Manager is responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring safety systems that support organisational compliance and continuous improvement.
If you are passionate about workplace safety, leadership, and risk management, a career in WHS management may provide rewarding opportunities across a range of industries.
Typical WHS Manager Responsibilities
A WHS Manager may assist with:
- Developing workplace safety management systems
- Leading workplace risk management processes
- Conducting safety audits and inspections
- Investigating incidents and recommending improvements
- Monitoring legislative compliance requirements
- Managing workplace consultation processes
- Developing safety policies and procedures
- Promoting a positive safety culture
Recommended Qualification
One qualification commonly undertaken by individuals seeking advanced WHS knowledge and leadership skills is:
BSB51319 Diploma of Work Health and Safety
This nationally recognised qualification is designed to develop skills and knowledge required to coordinate and manage work health and safety systems within organisations.
At Risen Star College of Technology & Business, learners may develop skills in:
- Implementing WHS management systems
- Managing workplace hazards and risks
- Leading consultation and participation processes
- Investigating incidents and implementing corrective actions
- Applying WHS legislation and compliance requirements
- Promoting continuous improvement in workplace safety
Practical Workplace Learning
This qualification incorporates practical workplace-focused learning activities designed to support the application of WHS knowledge in real workplace environments or simulated workplace settings where appropriate.
Learners may have opportunities to develop practical skills relating to workplace safety leadership, compliance monitoring, consultation, and risk managemen
Career Opportunities
Graduates may explore roles such as:
- Work Health and Safety Manager
- WHS Advisor
- Safety Coordinator
- Compliance Officer
- Risk Management Officer
- Return to Work Coordinator
Specific roles and responsibilities vary depending on industry requirements, employer expectations, experience, and other factors.
Employment outcomes depend on a range of factors including prior experience, industry demand, work performance, location, and employer requirements.
Why Choose Risen Star College?
At Risen Star College, our trainers and assessors bring industry experience and are committed to supporting learners in developing practical workplace skills.
We focus on:
- Industry-relevant training
- Practical workplace application
- Flexible study options
- Student-centred support
- Quality training and assessment
Ready to Advance Your WHS Career?
If you are interested in developing advanced workplace health and safety knowledge and leadership skills, the BSB51319 Diploma of Work Health and Safety may provide a pathway for further professional development.