BSB Training Product Update: Safe and Respectful Workplaces - Unit of Competency

Commencement Date: July 2025

Anticipated Completion Date: August 2026

Project Overview

This project will update the Certificate III in Work Health and Safety to embed safe, respectful workplace skills, delivering consistent, cross-sector training that meets industry needs and promotes safer workplaces.

Repeated instances of unsafe behaviour, bullying, sexual harassment, and racism across multiple industries have exposed a critical gap in current workplace training.

These issues have been highlighted by Jobs and Skills Councils (JSCs), along with extensive media and statutory enquiries, particularly in the mining sector.

Disjointed, sector-specific responses have resulted in duplication and a lack of nationally consistent solutions, preventing effective scale and failing to deliver the most in-demand skills. Training must be responsive to industry requirements, aligned to employment pathways, and capable of addressing contemporary workplace challenges.

This project will update the BSB30719 Certificate III in Work Health and Safety to include the new unit of competency as an elective, embedding safe and respectful workplace skills in nationally recognised qualifications.

Cross-sector training and assessment resources will also be developed to support rapid and effective adoption. Supported by other JSCs, we will design the unit of competency for contextualisation across sectors, to reduce duplication and drive consistent training outcomes.

Background Information

Recent legislative changes, including amendments to the Fair Work Act (March 2023) and updates to Work Health and Safety Regulations (April 2023), have increased employer obligations to prevent sexual harassment and manage psychosocial hazards.

Insights from our Workforce Plan and stakeholder consultation further emphasise the importance of addressing digital exclusion, gender inequality, cultural safety, and psychological safety to prepare workers for contemporary employment pathways.

The process to update the training products will adhere to the Training Package Organising Framework (TPOF) (1 July 2025).

Consultation and Feedback

We will develop a consultation strategy as part of the project plan, using a variety of consultation methods.

The TPOF details the requirements for the process of development and endorsement, including the establishment of a Technical Committee. The composition of the Technical Committee is detailed in the TPOF and must be followed to ensure representation is consistent across all training product projects.

We will call for Expressions of Interest for the Technical Committee in September 2025.