About Us
At Sparkways, we believe in making a difference — not just for our children, families, and communities, but also for the people who work with us. We’re building a culture that values accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement, where our teams are supported to do their best work every day.
About the Role
Reporting to the Executive Director, the OHS Adviser will lead and embed Occupational Health and Safety systems, culture, and capability across the organisation.
This role is responsible for the end-to-end OHS function, including the implementation of the OHS Framework, site-based engagement, audit programs, incident management support, and training delivery. You will also work closely with an external Return to Work provider and internal leaders to strengthen safety outcomes across all services.
The role is part-time (22.8 hours per week), with flexible hours across three or four days per week, and can be scheduled within school hours. It requires regular travel to early learning sites across Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs. Key Responsibilities
- Implement and maintain Sparkways’ OHS management system, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation, policies, and regulatory requirements.
- Lead the development and delivery of the OHS Framework, including systems, processes, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Plan, coordinate, and deliver the organisation’s OHS audit program, including site visits and monitoring corrective actions.
- Drive a proactive safety culture through coaching, engagement, and regular presence across early learning sites.
- Develop and deliver OHS training, inductions, toolbox talks, and capability-building resources for staff and leaders.
- Support incident management, investigations, risk assessments, and root cause analysis to strengthen prevention strategies.
- Monitor, analyse, and report on OHS performance metrics (e.g., incidents, hazards, LTIs) to inform improvement actions.
- Build strong internal and external stakeholder relationships, including WorkSafe, insurers, RTW providers, and internal leadership teams.
About You
You’re a great team player and a people person — someone who builds trust and positive relationships at all levels of the organisation. You enjoy being ‘in the field’, working collaboratively and bringing others along with you to achieve shared goals. You have strong communication skills, and a commitment to keeping people safe.
You’ll also have:
- Relevant qualifications in OHS or demonstrated equivalent experience.
- Demonstrated experience in OHS leadership, ideally within community services, education, or multi-site environments.
- In-depth knowledge of current OHS legislation, regulations and Codes of practice.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills.
- Experience designing and delivering OHS training programs.
- Ability to analyse data, report on trends, and implement practical safety solutions.
Why Join Sparkways?
- Make a genuine impact in an organisation that supports communities and positive outcomes for children and families
- Salary packaging benefits (NFP organisation)
- Enjoy a supportive team environment that values professional growth and wellbeing.
- Access hybrid working arrangements and ongoing development opportunities.
- Be part of an organisation committed to innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Learn more: https://sparkways.org.au
Child safety and inclusiveness
Sparkways and all our Centres are committed to child safety. The protection and wellbeing of children and young persons is reflected in our zero tolerance for child abuse. All staff and volunteers have a moral and legal responsibility to ensure that young people are safe whilst involved in our care and programs. All children have the right to safety and security and the protection from physical, emotional, verbal, and sexual abuse and neglect.
Sparkways is a child safe and equal employment opportunity employer. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, from people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and from people with a disability.
Are you ready to make your spark at Sparkways?
Apply now with your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and motivation for joining the role and working with Sparkways.
