Contract WHS Project Lead – Defence Safety Initiatives

NOVA Partners; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

NOVA Partners is seeking an experienced Work Health and Safety Lead/Manager– Projects in Melbourne to drive a portfolio of WHS improvement initiatives. This hands‑on role reports to the Chief People Officer and collaborates with the WHSE team, leaders, employees and contractors.

The successful candidate will deliver risk‑based WHS projects, update documentation, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards in a highly regulated defence/tech environment.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated WHS project delivery experience in complex environments.
• Strong knowledge of Commonwealth WHS Act, regs and codes of practice.
• Experience with hazardous chemicals management and dangerous goods.
• Ability to translate regulatory requirements into practical actions.
• Proven project management and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Relevant tertiary or diploma‑level WHS qualification.
• Experience in ISO 45001‑aligned WHS systems.
• Experience in defence, advanced manufacturing or regulated sectors.
• Experience with contractor safety assurance and training frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Lead a portfolio of safety improvement projects from assessment to handover.
• Develop and maintain WHS management system documentation.
• Coordinate with senior leaders, engineers and contractors on safety initiatives.
• Update emergency planning, response procedures and drills.
• Strengthen chemical management framework and controls.
• Establish contractor onboarding, prequalification and safety verifications.

Skills

WHS project delivery

WHS regulations

Hazardous chemicals

Contractor safety

Emergency management

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

ISO 45001 knowledge

Defense/regulatory sector

Training frameworks

Education

WHS/OHS risk mgmt qualification

Job description

NOVA Partners is seeking an experienced Work Health and Safety Lead/Manager– Projects in Melbourne to drive a portfolio of WHS improvement initiatives. This hands‑on role reports to the Chief People Officer and collaborates with the WHSE team, leaders, employees and contractors.

The successful candidate will deliver risk‑based WHS projects, update documentation, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards in a highly regulated defence/tech environment.