Overview
The University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) is seeking an experienced and influential Head of Health, Safety and Wellbeing to provide institution-wide leadership across health, safety, wellbeing and injury management. Reporting to the Director, People and Culture, this role sits on the People and Culture leadership team and plays a critical role in protecting our people, enabling our strategy, and strengthening governance and risk management across a diverse, multi-site university environment.
At UniSC, health, safety and wellbeing are fundamental to effective teaching, research and operations, and are embedded within the University’s governance and risk management framework. In this role, you will lead a small team to shape and deliver the University’s Health, Safety and Wellbeing strategy, embedding a proactive, safety-first culture across campuses, disciplines and operational contexts, from laboratories and fieldwork to teaching spaces and corporate environments.
This is a senior leadership role with strong operational connection. Your team includes specialist WHS, wellbeing and return-to-work professionals, overseeing incident and injury management, and providing trusted second-line risk advice to senior leaders. Working across executive engagement, governance and reporting, and campus-based activity, you will make a lasting impact by shaping culture, strengthening systems, and supporting UniSC to grow safely, sustainably and responsibly.
You will
* lead and support a small team of health, safety, wellbeing and injury management specialists, creating a culture of proactive support, capability building and continuous improvement.
* partner with senior leaders to implement and evaluate the University’s Health, Safety and Wellbeing (HSW) strategy, embedding a safety-first mindset into daily operations and long-term planning across all campuses.
* provide expert risk management advice and oversight on health and safety matters, guiding departments, schools, research centres and institutes in best practice.
* develop and manage HSW reporting systems that enable evidence-based decision making, monitor performance, and inform strategic priorities.
* oversee the development and continuous improvement of HSW governance frameworks, systems and processes to ensure compliance, drive consistency, and support the university’s strategic direction.
* Contribute to a safe, inclusive and ethical workplace by leading training and awareness programs, overseeing injury management and compliance, and supporting the broader People and Culture team
About you
You are an experienced leader who combines strategic oversight with deep operational expertise, and who brings a proven ability to build trust and lead meaningful change within complex, people-centred organisations - ideally with experience in the higher-education sector or similar environments. You navigate the intersection of long-term strategy and day-to-day operational demands with sound judgement, and a collaborative leadership style that is effective at all levels, from frontline teams to executive leadership.
You bring experience gained in large, multi-site or otherwise complex environments with diverse workforce profiles, and a strong commitment to translating best practice into tangible, sustainable outcomes. You are ready to lead the continued evolution of UniSC’s health, safety and wellbeing function, advancing strategic priorities while delivering practical, people-focused solutions with integrity, accountability and impact.
You will possess
* proven leadership experience in managing health, safety and wellbeing functions within large, complex organisations.
* deep expertise in contemporary safety concepts, systems, and leadership practices across multi-site environments.
* a strategic mindset with demonstrated ability to design and embed a proactive, safety-first culture that supports organisational goals and drives sustainable, long-term impact across complex environments.
* a successful track record in leading and developing high-performing HSW teams.
* strong knowledge of governance frameworks, risk management, and evidence-based HSW program delivery, including mental health initiatives.
* exceptional interpersonal and influencing skills, with the ability to build trusted relationships at all levels.
* a strong appreciation of the strategic alignment between HSW and broader People and Culture strategies.
* ability to work primarily from our Sippy Downs campus on the Sunshine Coast for four days per week. Alternatively if the position is based at Moreton Bay (Petrie), there is an expectation for regular travel to our Sunshine Coast Campus. (Relocation assistance is available for eligible candidates).
How to apply
We will be reviewing applications and contacting suitable candidates throughout the duration of this advertisement. We strongly encourage you to submit your interest as soon as possible.
Your completed application must include a resume and a cover letter (not to exceed two pages), which will be reviewed in alignment to the selection criteria as outlined within the position description.
Have questions or want to know more? For a confidential discussion, please contact:
UniSC is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, women in STEM, First Nations Peoples, and individuals of diverse cultures, genders, abilities, and experiences. We value achievement relative to opportunity and encourage your commentary on your achievements in this context. For additional support during the application process, please contact us at unisc-careers@usc.edu.au or call +61 7 5430 2830.
UniSC values a diverse and talented workforce and invites applications from candidates who already have legal work rights in Australia.
Benefits
* Our collaborative, passionate and welcoming culture is what really sets us apart.
* Modern teaching & research facilities.
* Professional development and career pathway opportunities.
* Flexible work arrangements & generous leave options.
* Salary packaging options + 17% Super.
* EAP, fitness passport & discounted private health.
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