Newcastle Airport is experiencing the most exciting period in its 70-year history as it grows in size, aspiration and influence. As a critical regional asset, we connect our region to Australia and the world, supporting economic growth, tourism and community prosperity. We are committed to creating a safe, sustainable and high-performing workplace where our people can thrive.

As the Airport continues through a significant period of transformation and growth, there has never been a better time to join our team.

About the Role – Head of Safety

We are seeking an experienced and influential Head of Safety to lead Newcastle Airport's organisation-wide safety strategy, governance framework and safety culture.

Reporting to the Executive General Manager People & Communications, you will be Newcastle Airport's most senior safety skilled and trusted adviser to the Executive Leadership Team. You will provide strategic leadership across safety governance, risk management, compliance and culture, ensuring safety remains at the center of organisational decision-making.

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of safety across a growing airport environment while working closely with senior leaders, regulators and industry stakeholders.

You'll Have the Opportunity To

- Lead the development and implementation of Newcastle Airport's safety strategy and governance framework.

- Provide expert safety advice and insights to the Executive Leadership Team.

- Drive a proactive and risk-based safety culture across the organisation.

- Maintain and continuously improve the WHS Management System and associated frameworks.

- Oversee incident management, investigations, assurance activities and continuous improvement initiatives.

- Monitor enterprise-wide safety risks and provide strategic recommendations to support decision-making.





- Engage with regulators, industry bodies and external stakeholders as Newcastle Airport's lead safety representative.

- Partner with leaders across the business to embed safety into operational activities, projects and contractor management.

- Develop organisational safety capability through coaching, mentoring and leadership development initiatives.

- Lead the delivery of safety performance reporting, compliance monitoring and risk management activities.

About You

You are an accomplished safety leader with extensive experience operating in a senior WHS or safety leadership role. You are equally comfortable influencing at senior level as you are engaging with operational teams and stakeholders.

You have a proven ability to build strong relationships, drive cultural change and deliver practical safety outcomes within complex and highly regulated environments.

Most importantly, you role-model Newcastle Airport's values and contribute positively to our culture.

To Succeed in this Role, You'll Bring

- Tertiary qualifications in Work Health and Safety or a related discipline.

- Extensive experience in a senior WHS leadership role with enterprise-wide accountability.

- Demonstrated experience developing and implementing organisational safety strategies.

- Strong knowledge of WHS legislation, risk management principles and governance frameworks.

- Proven ability to influence Executive and Board-level stakeholders.





- Experience leading teams and driving organisational culture change.

- Exceptional communication, stakeholder management and relationship-building skills.

- Strong analytical and problem-solving capability.

- Experience in aviation, infrastructure or similarly regulated environments (highly regarded).

- Lead Auditor qualification and/or experience maintaining ISO 45001 certified management systems (desirable).

Why Work for Newcastle Airport?

This is an opportunity to join an organisation that's helping transform our region. We’re building stronger connections between the Hunter, Australia and the world. You'll work in a collaborative environment that values:

Trust | Engaged | Committed | Accountable | Results-driven

Our values aren’t just words on a page — they are a core part of our DNA. We live and breathe them every day, from making strategic decisions right through to the daily support that we provide to our passengers and visitors.

Most importantly, you'll be part of a team that's playing a pivotal role in one of the most exciting periods in Newcastle Airport's history!

How to Apply

Please click Apply to submit your cover letter and CV.

We may commence reviewing applications and contacting shortlisted candidates prior to the closing date, so we encourage interested applicants to apply early.

Newcastle Airport is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities and experiences, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We are committed to providing a fair, flexible and supportive recruitment process and encourage applicants to let us know if they require any reasonable adjustments.

📌 Head of Safety (Williamtown)
🏢 Newcastle Airport Pty
📍 Williamtown