About The Opportunity Based in Henderson, WA, the HSE Lead provides leadership, guidance, and support to project teams, driving health, safety, and environmental performance across major Defence shipbuilding programs. Working closely with the HSE Manager and the Project Team, you will lead HSE initiatives, mentor HSE Advisors, strengthen safety culture, and ensure compliance with legislative, regulatory, and corporate requirements.

About Austal

Austal is Australia’s global shipbuilder, Defence prime contractor; and maritime technology partner of choice. We design, construct, and support defence and commercial vessels for the world’s leading operators with operations spanning Australia, the USA, Philippines, and Vietnam. With operations spanning multiple sites, Austal offers diverse career opportunities in trades, maintenance, engineering support, project services, corporate functions and operational delivery.

Under the Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement, Austal is leading a current era of continuous naval shipbuilding in Western Australia. We’re driving innovation, supporting sovereign capability, and creating long-term opportunities for Australian industry and workers. Learn more at Careers at Austal Australia | Austal: Australia This is your opportunity to contribute to projects of national significance.

The maritime is now. What’s Involved Lead and support project HSE teams, ensuring high standards of conduct, performance, and compliance

Conduct assurance activities, audits, inspections, and risk management processes

Lead incident reporting, investigations, and corrective action management

Develop and deliver HSE training, awareness programs, and coaching initiatives





Partner with project teams and leaders to embed a strong safety culture

Drive continuous improvement initiatives and HSE performance outcomes

Develop and maintain emergency preparedness and response plans

Monitor compliance with WHS legislation, standards, and company requirements

Build strong relationships with regulators, customers, unions, and key stakeholders

Support injury management and return-to-work processes when required You’ll Need Tertiary qualification in Workplace Health & Safety, Environmental Management, or a related discipline

Minimum 5 years’ experience in HSE advisory roles within high-risk environments

Minimum 2 years’ experience leading HSE teams

Extensive experience conducting management system audits across WHS and environmental disciplines

Strong knowledge of WHS legislation, standards, and industry best practices

Demonstrated experience in coaching, mentoring, and stakeholder engagement

Strong communication, negotiation, and influence skills

Experience leading incident investigations and risk management activities

Eligibility for a Defence Security Clearance Why Join Us? Competitive compensation and benefits package.

Professional development and training opportunities.

A supportive and dynamic work environment.

Opportunities for career advancement within our growing organisation. At Austal we are committed to providing a safe and inclusive work environment for all. We believe that achieving greater diversity will enhance our operations and as such we actively encourage Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders, people of all backgrounds, ages, sexual orientation, and those with Disability to apply. Veterans are also encouraged to apply. Learn more at https://www.austaljobs.com/australia

📌 HSE Lead (Henderson)
🏢 Austal
📍 Henderson