As a workplace safety professional, one of the questions I’m frequently asked is, “What training does a Health and Safety Representative (HSR) need to undertake in Australia?”
This is an important topic because understanding HSR training requirements is key to ensuring compliance with Work Health and Safety (WHS) legislation and fostering a safer work environment.
In this blog, I’ll break down the training entitlements for HSRs across Australia’s jurisdictions and explain the role training plays in activating a HSR’s full statutory powers.

What Is a Health and Safety Representative (HSR)?
An HSR is an elected worker who represents their colleagues on health and safety matters. They are a important link between management and employees when it comes to creating a safe workplace. However, to effectively fulfil their responsibilities, HSRs need proper training.
HSR Training Requirements by Jurisdiction
ACT
- Mandatory Training Situations:
- Upon HSR request.
- When a PCBU seeks full activation of HSR powers.
- Training is provided by approved providers through SafeWork ACT.
Commonwealth
- Mandatory Training Situations:
- Upon HSR request.
- When a PCBU seeks full activation of HSR powers.
- Training is provided by approved providers through Comcare.
New South Wales
- Mandatory Training Situations:
- When requested by the HSR.
- When a PCBU wants the HSR to exercise full powers.
- Training must occur within three months of the request.
Queensland
- Mandatory Training: Required for all elected HSRs.
- Training must be completed within 28 days of election.
- The course consists of five days of approved training.
- PCBUs are responsible for covering all associated costs.
- Full powers are granted upon course completion.
Western Australia
- Mandatory Training: Required for all elected HSRs.
- HSRs must complete a five-day initial training course.
- PCBUs (Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking) must cover the costs and provide facilities and assistance for training.
- Full HSR powers are activated upon course completion.
Northern Territory and Tasmania
- Mandatory Training Situations:
- When requested by the HSR.
- When a PCBU wants full statutory powers for the HSR.
- PCBUs must allow regulator-approved training and cover associated costs.
South Australia
- Mandatory Training Situations:
- When an HSR requests training.
- When a PCBU wants the HSR to have full powers.
- Training must be arranged within three months.
Victoria
- Mandatory Training Situations:
- When an HSR requests training.
- When a PCBU wants the HSR to exercise full statutory powers.
- PCBUs must facilitate and fund the training upon request.
What Powers Are Dependent on Training?
HSRs can only exercise certain statutory powers after completing the five-day training course, including:
- Issuing cease work notices.
- Directing workers to stop unsafe work.
- Issuing Provisional Improvement Notices (PINs).
PCBU Obligations Across Jurisdictions
Regardless of the state or territory, all PCBUs must:
- Allow HSRs to select their preferred approved training provider.
- Ensure HSRs can attend approved training.
- Pay the HSR’s regular wages during training.
- Cover all training-related fees and reasonable costs.
Benefits of Supporting HSR Training
Encouraging HSRs to undergo training not only ensures compliance but also strengthens workplace safety, empowering employees to take a proactive role in risk management.
Key Takeaways
Training is vital to the success of Health and Safety Representatives. Across all jurisdictions, ensuring HSRs are trained not only fulfils legislative obligations but also supports a safer and more engaged workplace.
If you’re unsure about the requirements in your state or territory, consult the relevant WHS authority or reach out for tailored guidance. Supporting your HSRs is a step toward a safer, healthier, and more productive workplace.
Refrences
Jurisdiction | Regulator | Website |
Commonwealth | Comcare | |
Australian Capital Territory | WorkSafe ACT | |
New South Wales | SafeWork NSW | |
Queensland | WorkSafe QLD | |
Victoria | WorkSafe Victoria | |
Tasmania | WorkSafe Tasmania | |
South Australia | SafeWork SA | |
Western Australia | WorkSafe WA | |
Northern Territory | NT WorkSafe |
ABOUT THE Author - Kylie Dowell
Kylie Dowell is a seasoned WHS consultant, trainer, and safety advocate with over 25 years of experience helping Australian businesses create safer, compliant workplaces.
Through her partnership with TEAMS, an accredited Registered Training Organisation, Kylie delivers a wide range of training up to Advanced Diploma level, empowering businesses with the knowledge and skills to manage safety effectively.
As an approved trainer for Health and Safety Representative (HSR) courses by three Safety Regulators, Kylie has guided countless organisations in building stronger safety cultures and fostering healthier work environments.
Specialising in practical and effective safety solutions, she works closely with small and medium-sized businesses to simplify complex WHS requirements, making safety approachable and achievable.
When she’s not delivering high-quality training or conducting ISO 45001-certified audits, Kylie enjoys collaborating with her clients to design tailored workshops and strategies that suit their unique needs.
Ready to make safety simpler? Get in touch with Kylie today for personalised support.