Health and Safety Representative Training

Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) are entitled to attend an initial training course of five days. They are also entitled to one day of refresher training each year, with the first refresher training commencing one year after the initial training. Trained HSRs can issue provisional improvement notices (PINs) and direct unsafe work to stop. Training builds the skills and knowledge needed to carry out the HSR role effectively.

HSRs may choose their preferred training course and provider, in consultation with the person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU). A PCBU must allow each HSR paid time off to attend training, pay the course fees and any other reasonable costs, and ensure that both initial and refresher training are provided within three months of a request.

If the PCBU and HSR cannot come to a timely agreement about training, either party may ask the regulator to appoint an inspector to decide the matter. If the PCBU or HSR does not agree with the inspector’s decision, they can request the regulator to review the decision.

Applying to become an approved HSR training provider

To deliver HSR training in the ACT, providers must be approved by WorkSafe ACT.

Applications are open to organisations, companies or sole traders that can demonstrate the capacity, governance and quality systems required under the Guide on How to Become an Approved Provider of HSR Training . Courses must align with the Underpinning Principles and Learning Outcomes for HSR Training.

While Registered Training Organisation (RTO) status is not mandatory, RTOs are subject to regular external audits by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), which supports quality assurance. Non-RTO applicants must demonstrate equivalent systems and standards, including adequate resources, governance, facilities, and quality assurance processes.

Applications must be submitted using the WorkSafe ACT HSR Training Application Form . Applications must include course materials, trainer qualifications, and evidence of organisational capability, as outlined in the Guide on How to Become an Approved Provider of HSR Training. Trainers must also be individually approved by WorkSafe ACT before delivering HSR training.

Approval may be granted for up to five years, subject to providers continuing to meet all conditions of approval. Approved providers and trainers are subject to compliance monitoring and audits by WorkSafe ACT.

Approved HSR Training Providers

The providers listed below are approved by WorkSafe ACT to deliver HSR training under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (ACT). HSRs may choose an approved course and provider in consultation with their PCBU. WorkSafe ACT does not schedule courses, set fees and cannot recommend one provider over another.

Approved training providers are:

For further information on any of the above, please contact training@worksafe.act.gov.au.

Resources

• Guide on How to Become an Approved Provider of HSR Training
• Underpinning Principles and Learning Outcomes for HSR Training
• WorkSafe ACT HSR Training Application Form