WHO WE ARE
St Agnes’ Catholic Parish is a vibrant, values-driven not-for-profit organisation located in the beautiful coastal town of Port Macquarie. Our diverse services span across education, early childhood, aged care, and community support. We are proud of our long-standing commitment to serving others and are currently on an exciting path of innovation and transformation as we strive to exceed the expectations of those we serve.
ABOUT THE ROLE
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Work Health and Safety (WHS) Manager to lead and evolve our safety culture and ensure our work environments are safe, healthy, and compliant across all Parish services.
Reporting to the Executive Manager, People, you will play a critical role in developing, implementing and maintaining a best-practice WHS management system aligned with current legislation and organisational needs. You will act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, coaching and guiding leaders to take active ownership of WHS responsibilities while embedding a risk-aware, safety-first mindset across the organisation.
This role is hands-on and strategic, working closely with internal stakeholders including service managers and the HR team, as well as external providers and regulatory bodies. The position also includes line management of the Injury Management Advisor and oversight of return-to-work programs and injury prevention strategies.
This is a Permanent Full-Time role (76 hours per fortnight) based at the Parish Administration Centre in Port Macquarie.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead the delivery of the Parish WHS Plan in line with organisational strategy, embedding a proactive safety culture across all sites.
- Provide expert advice and coaching to leaders on legal obligations, incident prevention, and compliance with WHS legislation, SafeWork NSW and Workers Compensation requirements.
- Oversee the continuous improvement of WHS systems, procedures, policies, and reporting frameworks.
- Coordinate the Parish’s Return to Work Program, supporting injured employees and managing relationships with insurers and brokers.
- Lead the WHS team, supporting performance development and ensuring quality service delivery.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of WHS developments, risks and industry trends to ensure best-practice implementation.
- Deliver and evaluate WHS training programs, ensuring staff are equipped to fulfil their responsibilities.
- Build collaborative relationships across the organisation to ensure alignment of WHS practices with broader operational priorities.
- Monitor, review, and report on WHS metrics and performance to executive leadership.
WHAT WE OFFER OUR EMPLOYEES
- Competitive remuneration package + Super + Relocation assistance + Salary packaging.
- Working for a reputable, longstanding, values-based organisation
- Relocation assistance available
- A commitment to providing a responsive and supportive work environment
- Salary Packaging options of up to $15,900 Tax Free, plus $2,650 Meals & Entertainment Card
- 17.5 % annual leave loading
- An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for you and your immediate family.
- As a corporate partner of Westpac, employees will have access to special offers, discounts and financial information.
- You will have access to excellent employee perks including Fitness Passport & discounted Allied Health Services, i.e., remedial massage, physiotherapy, exercise physiology etc.
- Paid professional learning and development
- Career advancement opportunities and study assistance for approved courses
- Generous employee referral program
- A focus on work/life balance and on your wellbeing
WHO YOU ARE
- Tertiary qualifications in WHS or a related discipline (or relevant equivalent experience)
- Significant, demonstrated experience in the development and management of WHS management systems, plans and frameworks
- Comprehensive, working knowledge of WHS legislative requirements, Safe Work obligations, Workers Compensation schemes and return to work processes
- A demonstrated track record of success implementing WHS best practice and developing a culture of safety
- Outstanding interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills (consultation, facilitation, negotiation and influence)
- Passionate about leading change by utilising initiative and innovative thinking
- Proven report writing capability and the ability to present information and influence at senior levels
- Commitment to work in harmony with Catholic Values and Principles
HOW TO APPLY
If you are interested in this role and would like more information, please contact Paige Kerry, Recruitment Specialist, on.
Click ‘Apply’ to submit your resume and cover letter.
The Parish is committed to being a safe place for children and vulnerable people.
Preferred candidates will be required to undergo employment screening. This includes a criminal history check and referencing for all employees and any additional checks depending on the role.
Please apply immediately if interested. Applications will be actioned upon submission.
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📌 Work, Health & Safety Manager
🏢 St Agnes' Catholic Parish
📍 Port Macquarie-Hastings Council