Key updates on Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) 

Queensland businesses should be aware  of recent changes to Work Health and Safety rules which put new obligations on employers.  

Workers’ right to elect HSRs 

Employers are now required to inform workers of their rights regarding the election of HSRs. Employers must take steps to meet new obligations.  

Employer obligations 

As part of your responsibility under the WHS Act, you are required to inform workers about: 

• Their right to request an election for one or more HSRs. 
• The employer’s role in facilitating the election process. 
• How work groups are determined. 
• Who can represent workers during negotiations. 
• The steps involved in the HSR election process. 
• The powers and responsibilities of HSRs. 

When to inform workers? 

You must notify workers of their rights to elect HSRs as soon as possible if: 

1. Your business has started operating. 
2. No HSR has been elected in your workplace. 
3. The current HSR’s three-year term has expired. 
4. The current HSR resigns or is no longer part of the workgroup. 
5. The current HSR is removed by a majority vote or is disqualified. 

 Benefits of HSR representatives  

While having Health Safety Representatives (HSRs) is not mandatory, it is highly recommended with key benefits including:  

• Enhanced safety awareness: HSRs play a crucial role in raising awareness of health and safety issues among workers, fostering a culture of safety throughout the workplace.  
• Improved communication: HSRs act as a liaison between workers and management, facilitating open communication about health and safety concerns.  
• Timely issue resolution: by actively identifying and addressing safety concerns, HSRs contribute to resolving issues more quickly and assist in implementing solutions and preventive measures to reduce the likelihood of accidents and injuries.  
• Compliance and risk management: HSRs can assist an organisation meet health and safety obligations. By monitoring compliance and advocating for safe practices, they reduce the risk of regulatory fines and improve the organisations overall risk management. 

Support for employers 

Work Health and Safety Queensland has developed a factsheet that helps employers meet their obligations by informing workers of their right to elect HSRs. Providing this factsheet to workers will ensure compliance with your duty to inform them of their rights. You can access the factsheet [here]. 

How can Business Chamber Queensland help? 

For more support or advice, Business Chamber Queensland is here to assist you in navigating these requirements. 

Business Chamber Queensland members with HR services as part of their membership can contact the Workplace Advisory Services team:  

P: 1300 731 988
E: [email protected]  

A consultancy fee will apply to businesses who do not have a HR membership.