CQID is experiencing organisational growth across all services and seeking suitable candidates for a range of positions.
CQID is one of the largest employers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Central Queensland region. Offering a broad range of service areas, with roles that serve our community across Rockhampton, Bundaberg, Emerald, Gladstone, Hervey Bay, Longreach, Maryborough and Woorabinda.
A new organisational structure, designated HR team and the implementation of a new Workforce Strategy. Striving to support employees on their career journey is a priority and contributes us to being an Employer of Choice.
Purpose of the Position
The Work Health and Safety (WHS) Officer is responsible for promoting and supporting a safe, healthy, and compliant workplace by developing, implementing, and monitoring safety systems, policies, and procedures across the organisation. The role works collaboratively with managers, employees, and key stakeholders to identify risks, prevent incidents, and foster a strong safety culture.
This position plays a key role in ensuring compliance with relevant WHS legislation, standards, and organisational policies. It provides guidance, training, and support to staff to build capability in risk management and safe work practices. The WHS Officer also contributes to continuous improvement by analysing safety data, investigating incidents, and implementing effective corrective actions to minimise risk and enhance workplace safety outcomes.
Responsibilities and Duties
- Build and maintain strong, respectful relationships with staff, managers, and stakeholders to support a positive and proactive safety culture across the organisation
- Promote a workplace environment grounded in kindness, trust, and open communication, where employees feel safe to raise concerns and contribute to safety improvements
- Approach all WHS activities with empathy, integrity, and a people-first mindset, recognising that safety is about supporting the wellbeing of individuals
- Develop, implement, and monitor Work Health and Safety (WHS) systems, policies, and procedures to ensure compliance with relevant legislation and organisational standards
- Conduct workplace inspections, audits, and risk assessments, working collaboratively with teams to identify hazards and implement practical control measures
- Lead incident and near-miss investigations with a focus on learning, continuous improvement, and care, rather than blame
- Provide approachable, clear, and practical guidance to staff and managers on safe work practices and risk management
- Deliver engaging training, toolbox talks, and awareness activities that build capability and encourage shared responsibility for safety
- Support staff to feel confident, valued, and empowered in their role in maintaining a safe workplace
- Monitor and analyse WHS data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement
- Maintain accurate records, reports, and compliance documentation in line with organisational and legislative requirements
- Contribute to continuous improvement by identifying gaps, recommending solutions, and supporting implementation of safety initiatives
- Work collaboratively with internal teams to ensure WHS considerations are integrated into daily operations and decision-making
- Promote personal accountability and intentional daily practice in safety—leading by example through consistent, positive behaviours and a strong work ethic
- Encourage a culture where people look out for one another and take pride in maintaining a safe and healthy workplace
- Ensure all WHS activities align with organisational values, quality standards, and regulatory requirements (e.g. ISO 9001, HSQS where applicable)
- Comply with organisational policies and procedures, including Workplace Health and Safety
- Highly flexible and available to travel between multiple sites on a regular basis and as required, including Rockhampton, Bundaberg, Woorabinda, Denham Street, Musgrave, Maryborough, Hervey Bay, Emerald, and Longreach
- Undertake other duties as required
Key Performance Indicators
- Deliver planned WHS activities, including workplace inspections, audits, and risk assessments, in line with organisational requirements and reporting timeframes
- Demonstrate increased safety awareness, understanding, and compliance across all sites and teams
- Facilitate regular toolbox talks and safety briefings that are engaging, practical, and well-attended, supporting a strong safety culture
- Effectively communicate WHS information through confident public speaking, presentations, and training sessions to diverse audiences
- Evidence meaningful and ongoing engagement with staff, managers, and stakeholders to promote a proactive and supportive approach to workplace safety
- Maintain visible presence across sites through regular monthly travel, building trust, consistency, and strong working relationships with teams
- Demonstrate approachability, kindness, and professionalism in all interactions, contributing to a positive and respectful safety culture
- Contribute to a reduction in workplace incidents, injuries, and hazards through proactive risk management and early intervention strategies
- Ensure timely, thorough, and supportive investigation of incidents and near misses, with a clear focus on learning and continuous improvement
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date WHS records, reports, and compliance documentation in line with legislative and organisational requirements
- Identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement through analysis of WHS data and site feedback
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, supporting the development and implementation of practical safety solutions
- Ensure WHS practices align with organisational values, quality standards (e.g. ISO 9001, HSQS), and legislative requirements
- Demonstrate consistent, intentional daily practice—arriving prepared, proactive, and committed to supporting the safety and wellbeing of others
- Build and maintain strong, trusted relationships across all levels of the organisation, encouraging open communication and shared responsibility for safety
- Participate in supervision, professional development, and reflective practice to continually strengthen capability and effectiveness in the role
- Undertake other duties as required
Qualifications and Experience
Essential
- Demonstrates a positive attitude, kindness, and a consistent, intentional approach to daily work
- Proven ability to build positive relationships and promote a supportive, respectful safety culture
- Holds a current C Class Queensland Driver’s Licence
- Current Working with Children Check, ‘Blue Card’
- Holds or is willing to obtain a First Aid and CPR Certificate
- Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety(WHS) , Diploma in WHS or willingness to obtain
- Demonstrated knowledge of WHS legislation, standards, and risk management practices
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage staff through training, toolbox talks, and public speaking
- Demonstrated ability to conduct risk assessments, incident investigations, and workplace inspections
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to maintain accurate WHS records and reporting
Desirable
- Qualifications or knowledge related WHS
- Experience implementing WHS systems within human services or community-based organisations
- Experience at successfully leading and developing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff members
- Well-developed written communication skills, including report writing and assessment documentation
- Experience at successful service delivery to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
- Fire Safety Advisor
Skills and Attributes
Essential
- Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander heritage – [Note: Only for First Nations candidates]
- Demonstrated reliability, strong work ethic, and commitment to consistent attendance and punctuality
- Competent in use of Microsoft word, excel and PowerPoint software or a desire to learn
- Physical capacity to undertake the inherent requirements of the role, including site inspections and travel
- Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, across a range of audiences
- Self-motivated, proactive, and able to manage workload independently while maintaining a high standard of work
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and engage respectfully with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
- Adaptability and ability to respond effectively to changing priorities in a dynamic work environment
- Demonstrates kindness, empathy, and a genuine commitment to supporting the safety and wellbeing of others.
- Demonstrates a positive attitude and intentional approach to daily work, contributing to a supportive and productive team environment
Desirable
- Demonstrated passion for workplace safety and commitment to improving wellbeing outcomes for staff
- Experience facilitating training sessions, toolbox talks, or safety presentations
- Strong understanding of psychosocial safety and promoting mentally healthy workplaces
- Experience working in community services, not-for-profit, or multi-site environments
- Knowledge of culturally safe practices and experience working with diverse communities, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
- Experience contributing to continuous improvement initiatives and organisational change
- Adaptability and ability to respond to changing priorities within a dynamic service environment
- Experience with WHS management systems and audit processes
- Commitment to ongoing professional development and reflective practice
