Work Health and Safety (WHS) Statement of Commitment

Geoscience Australia is committed to ensuring the health and safety of all staff. We know we must evolve to meet requirements of an increasingly complex and volatile world, and in doing so, we must cultivate sound work health and safety (WHS) systems that are safe by design.

After identifying some deficiencies in the current WHS Management System, and with a focus on improving the safety of our staff, Geoscience Australia commissioned a thorough review through an external organisation, Risk Resolve. This review encompassed the demonstrated attitudes, behaviours, competence, and culture across the organisation, regarding management of physical and psychological risks, including sexual harassment and sexism.

Risk Resolve led group discussions, surveys and one-on-one interviews with over 300 staff members in an effort to understand the issues affecting workplace health and safety. As a result, Risk Resolve issued a report with their findings and 34 recommendations.

Geoscience Australia is committed to implementing all recommendations. It is important that all staff, regardless of whether they work in an office, remotely or in the field, feel safe and respected. This review demonstrates our active commitment to uncovering and addressing any WHS challenges in a transparent and open way. We acknowledge that by doing so, we have created opportunities for change, to enhance our safety performance and imbed a robust safety culture.

This commitment is integral to building an organisation that aligns to national science objectives and delivers better outcomes for government, industry and the community. We value the diversity of all staff and we are dedicated to providing a positive, supportive and safe workplace for all.