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Health and Safety Representative training in WA is the approved training completed by elected representatives so they can understand their role and exercise their powers under Western Australian WHS laws.
If your workplace has elected, or is preparing to elect, Health and Safety Representatives (HSR) in Western Australia, it is important to understand what the law requires, what the role involves, and what training needs to be arranged.
This quick FAQ is designed for employers, managers, HR teams, and WHS professionals who need clear answers and a simple next step.
What is a HSR?
A Health and Safety Representative is a worker elected by a work group to represent that group on work health and safety matters.
In practical terms, a HSR helps raise safety concerns, supports consultation between workers and the PCBU, and represents the work group on WHS issues.
Who needs a HSR?
A HSR is needed when workers want formal representation on WHS matters.
For employers, this usually becomes relevant when a workplace is growing, operating across multiple teams or shifts, managing contractors, or working in higher-risk environments where clear consultation and worker representation matter.
Is a HSR required by law in WA?
In WA, if workers request a HSR election, the PCBU must begin negotiations regarding work groups and support the election process. That means employers need to be ready to facilitate the process properly and support elected HSRs in the role.
Even where a business is not yet at that point, it is still in the employer’s interest to understand how HSR representation works and to be prepared to support it well. Workplaces that handle consultation well are often better placed to respond to risks early, maintain trust, and keep safety conversations practical and constructive.
Can a business choose its HSRs?
A business may support HSR representation as part of its broader WHS approach and may have internal policies that encourage the election of HSRs where appropriate.
However, a business cannot simply appoint a HSR. HSRs must be elected by workers in a work group. Employers cannot appoint the HSR, choose the outcome of the election, or control who workers nominate or vote for.
What training is required for a HSR in WA?
To exercise all of their powers and functions, an elected HSR must attend an approved five-day initial HSR training course.
This training covers the WA WHS legislative framework, the role of the HSR, consultation, workplace inspections, issue resolution, and how HSR powers are applied in practice.
For many employers, this is one of the first key compliance steps after an HSR has been elected.
Who approves HSR training in WA?
In Western Australia, HSR training must be approved by the Work Health and Safety Commission, in accordance with the Work Health and Safety Act 2020 (WA).
That is important because not every general WHS course meets the legal requirement. If a worker has been elected as an HSR, they need approved HSR training delivered by an approved provider.
How long does HSR training last?
The initial HSR training course runs for five days.
A HSR can then hold office for up to three years, and if re-elected, can begin another term.
Can HSR refresher training be completed?
Yes. After completing the initial course, HSRs are entitled to attend up to one day of refresher training each year.
The first refresher can be completed 12 months after the initial five-day course. For employers, refresher training is a practical way to help HSRs stay current with legislative updates, reinforce their responsibilities, and maintain confidence in the role.
What’s the difference between a HSR and a supervisor?
This is a common question in workplaces.
A HSR is a worker representative elected to represent a work group on WHS matters.
A supervisor, on the other hand, is part of the management structure and is usually responsible for directing work, implementing procedures, and supporting compliance.
In short:
- HSR: represents workers on WHS matters
- Supervisor: manages work and operational responsibilities
The two roles often work closely together, but they are not the same.
How do you elect a HSR?
The process starts by establishing or confirming the relevant work group.
Workers in that work group must then be given a reasonable opportunity to nominate and vote. If the number of nominees matches the number of positions, a formal ballot may not be needed. If there are more nominees than positions, an election is conducted in a way decided by the work group.
The key point for employers is that HSRs are elected by workers, not appointed by management.
Why choose Aveling for HSR training in WA?
Aveling delivers approved Health and Safety Representative training focused on Western Australian requirements. Our experienced trainers help elected HSRs understand their role, build confidence in their responsibilities, and apply what they learn back in the workplace.
For employers, we make the process easy. Whether you are booking one person or a group of employees, our team can help you choose the right option. Training is delivered in Jandakot at our purpose-built facility, with free parking, catering, and tea and coffee provided. We also offer the one-day HSR Refresher course, making it easier to support your HSRs over time.
More information
For more information about Health and Safety Representatives, elections, powers, and training requirements in Western Australia, visit WorkSafe WA’s Health and Safety Committees and Representatives page. It is a useful source of official guidance if you would like to explore the requirements in more detail.
Ready to book HSR training in WA?
If your workplace has elected a HSR, or is preparing to do so, the next step is to arrange the right approved course.
You can view the Health and Safety Representatives course for initial training or the HSR Refresher course for eligible participants.
If you are booking on behalf of your team and want help choosing the right option, contact Aveling on (08) 9379 9999.