A model for safe IEU cooperation
At Holy Rosary Primary School in White Hills, IEU members Paul Wilkinson (Principal) and Jasmin (Health and Safety Representative) demonstrate best practice in managing occupational health and safety.
We spoke to Paul and Jasmine about how they make safety a priority at their school.
Paul Wilkinson, Principal
What makes your working relationship with Jasmin effective?
Our relationship is grounded in mutual respect, clear communication, and a shared focus on staff wellbeing. Jasmin is proactive, knowledgeable, and committed to maintaining a safe workplace, which makes collaboration easy and effective. We both prioritise transparency, listen to concerns, and work together to find practical solutions. Most importantly, there is trust – Jasmin knows her voice is heard and her role respected, which gives her the confidence to raise issues constructively.
Why is it important to leadership to have a good relationship with an HSR?
It ensures open lines of communication regarding workplace safety. A collaborative relationship enables early identification and resolution of potential hazards, helps foster a safety-first culture, and demonstrates to staff that leadership genuinely values their health and wellbeing. The HSR acts as a key bridge between staff and leadership, and a strong partnership ensures that both compliance and care are prioritised.
How can a Principal best support the creation of a safe working environment at their school?
A Principal must actively listen to staff concerns, regularly engage with the HSR, and ensure that health and safety are embedded in the school's operational and strategic planning. This includes allocating time and resources to WHS initiatives, maintaining up-to-date risk assessments, providing training, and following through on agreed actions.
What is your advice for a Principal where respect for staff safety is lacking?
Building a culture of respect begins with listening without defensiveness and responding with tangible actions. We must model the behaviours we wish to see, demonstrating that safety is non-negotiable. It's important to ensure that safety is included in our leadership conversations and that every member of staff feels psychologically safe to speak up about risks or concerns.
How can a leader foster trust in key staff personnel like HSRs?
Leaders should involve the HSR in meaningful decision-making, acknowledge their expertise, and respond promptly to issues they raise. It’s also important to acknowledge that as leaders we don’t always have the answers and providing a safe workplace requires a team approach. Most importantly, following through on commitments and keeping safety a standing agenda item at leadership meetings signals that their role is considered vital to the school’s success.
Jasmin O’Sullivan, HSR
What makes your working relationship with Paul effective?
Our relationship is grounded in clear, respectful communication and a shared commitment to safety. Paul understands the value of the HSR role and has supported it by prioritising both training and time release. His approachable nature means I can raise concerns or questions confidently, which helps us implement changes efficiently across the school.
How does a good relationship with a Principal benefit an HSR, and therefore, all staff?
A strong, collaborative relationship with the Principal is essential to the HSR role. I know I’ll be heard and respected when raising health and safety concerns. We work constructively to assess hazards and agree on effective solutions.
What do you do differently as HSR because there is a good relationship with your Principal?
It fosters informal, proactive communication – issues can be discussed early and addressed quickly. Because the Principal values the role, time is set aside to fulfil HSR duties properly, which enhances overall safety outcomes for staff and students.
What are the most important factors in creating a safe working environment at a school?
Strong leadership and a culture of open dialogue are vital. Time release is also crucial – it enables inspections, risk assessments, and meaningful consultation. Just as important is listening to staff and including their perspectives on OHS and injury management. When everyone feels heard and responsible, safety becomes a shared priority.
How important is training to performing your role as an HSR?
Training is fundamental to doing the job well. It keeps you informed about legislation and your rights and responsibilities and equips you with the skills to identify risks and consult effectively. It also connects you with other HSRs, allowing for shared learning and broader support.
