Blog
WHS law, risk management and leadership: what's changing and what it means at work.
1 Oct 2026What Good Psychosocial Support Looks Like at WorkWhat good psychosocial support looks like at work: practical, available help that reduces exposure, supports workers and strengthens work design.
14 Sept 2026NSW WHS Codes of Practice: Are Your Safety Documents Compliant?Are your WHS procedures compliant with NSW Codes of Practice? Learn what changed in 2026 and how to audit your safety documents for gaps and improvement opportunities.
3 Sept 2026What’s changed in WHS over the past 12 months?There's been quite a bit happening in WHS over the past 12 months. New PIN Requirements, New WHS Regulation 2025, Codes of Practice compliance
1 Sept 2026SafeWork NSW is Targeting Councils: Is Your Chamber Compliant?Are NSW councillors corporate "Officers"? Learn the real Section 29 psychosocial duties under SafeWork NSW and access our free compliance course. SafeWork NSW is Targeting Councils - don't wait for an improvement notice to land on your desk.
30 Aug 2026Officer Due Diligence Under WHS LawOfficer due diligence under WHS law is personal and cannot be delegated. Learn who counts as an officer, what section 27 requires and where to start.
29 Aug 2026Keeping Up with WHS Legislative Changes Shouldn't Be a Full-Time JobStay on top of WHS legislative changes across Australia and New Zealand. Discover an easier way to monitor updates and stay informed.
26 Aug 2026AI and Emerging TechnologiesExplore the WHS risks and opportunities of AI and emerging technologies, including automation, digital work systems, psychosocial hazards and critical controls.
10 June 2026Understanding the Upcoming Changes in NSW Codes of PracticeFrom 1 July 2026, NSW WHS Codes of Practice changes are coming and will carry greater compliance significance. Learn what the changes mean for your business and how to prepare
6 June 2026Navigating Psychosocial Hazard Regulations: A Simple Guide for Your OrganisationLearn how to implement practical psychosocial risk management using role-based risk assessments, control effectiveness frameworks and targeted psychosocial hazard controls. Psychosocial risk management doesn't need to be complicated.
4 June 2026Are Your SWMS a Hazard or a Control?Are Your SWMS a Hazard or a Control? Discover how to enhance SWMS effectiveness and ensure safety in high-risk industries. Are Your SWMS a Hazard or a Control?
4 May 2026Hiring the Wrong Safety People is a RiskHiring the wrong safety people can damage culture and increase risk. Learn what to look for, how to assess capability, and how to hire the right WHS person.
19 Mar 2026Risk-Based Leadership Program Scholarships 2026 | Apply NowApplications now open for the 2026 Risk-Based Leadership™ Development Program. Apply for fully funded leadership scholarships valued at $4,500. Limited places available for supervisors and operational leaders.
17 Mar 2026Why Traditional Leadership Programs Fail Operational LeadersMany supervisors become leaders without formal leadership development. Learn why traditional leadership programs fail operational leaders.
14 Mar 2026NSW Employers Could Face Fines for Workplace Bullying Under New Psychosocial Hazards SafeWork ReformsNew SafeWork NSW reforms may allow fines for workplace bullying and psychosocial hazards. Learn what the changes mean for employers and how to manage the risks.
5 Mar 2026HLTPAT010 Collect Specimens for Drugs of Abuse Testing | Course Update ExplainedLearn what changed from HLTPAT005 to HLTPAT010 Collect Specimens for Drugs of Abuse Testing, transition rules and where to complete the course in Dubbo
9 Feb 2026Verification of Competency (VOC): Why Confirming Skills Matters More Than EverLearn what Verification of Competency (VOC) is, who should conduct it, why it matters and the risks of failing to verify worker skills in the workplace.- 31 Dec 2025A Happy and Safe New Year from Orana Skills CentreOrana Skills Centre opens in Dubbo on 5 January 2026. Book WHS inductions, free Mental Health First Aid and specialist risk management training. Places are filling fast
5 Dec 2025Amendments to the Model WHS Laws: What Businesses Need to Know in 2025Amendments to the Model WHS Laws introduce new incident notification duties, crane licensing updates and clearer compliance requirements. Learn what these changes mean for your organisation, how psychosocial reporting will strengthen WHS insights, and why state and territory adoption will differ.
12 Nov 2025Change Management in Risk Management: Cause and EffectExplore change management in risk management. Learn how poor consultation and control changes increase risk and impact workplace safety.
8 Sept 2025Mitigating Controls: Why Reactive Measures Are as Critical as PreventionDiscover why mitigating controls are just as critical as prevention in risk management. Learn from real disasters like Hurricane Katrina, Fukushima, and Grenfell Tower how overreliance on “paper prevention” can fail – and why resilient systems need strong preventive and reactive controls.
11 July 2025The Future of Leadership Is Risk-LiteracyBuild risk capability with Australia’s only risk leadership training programs. Learn how to lead WHS, operational, compliance, and emergency risks with confidence.
22 June 2025Optus Fined $100m for Coercive Debt Collection and Unconscionable SalesOptus fined $100m for coercive debt collection and unconscionable sales
15 June 2025What is a Trauma Response Plan?A Trauma Response Plan (TRP) is a vital WHS requirement, ensuring consistent, trauma-informed responses to psychological injuries. Discover what to include and why your business needs one
3 June 2025WHS Responsibilities and Visitor SafetyUnderstand your WHS responsibilities for visitor safety. Learn who is considered a visitor, what legal duties apply, what hazards they may face, and how to manage psychosocial risks after traumatic events.
2 June 2025Why Prevention, Not Just Response, Is the Key to Managing Work-Related Violence in SchoolsWith a 46.7% rise in work-related violence in schools, from student behaviour, it’s time education departments prioritised prevention over paperwork. Here’s what needs to change.
2 June 2025What is a Modern Safety Leader?Discover what defines a modern safety leader in today’s workplaces. Learn how WHS professionals are shifting from enforcers to leaders who drive real change.
26 May 2025Critical Control Verification: How to Prove Your Most Important Safeguards Are WorkingDiscover how to simplify critical control verification in your workplace. Learn how to prove your most important risk controls are effective, with practical examples like machine guarding.
25 May 2025Complacency in Workplace Safety: Why Comfort Is More Dangerous Than CrisisDiscover why complacency in workplace safety is more dangerous than crisis. Learn how comfort leads to overlooked risks and how leaders can create a proactive, high-performing safety culture.- 22 May 2025How to Facilitate an Effective Risk WorkshopLearn how to facilitate an effective risk workshop that delivers real results. Discover the structure, tools, and facilitation tips to engage your team and identify critical risks and controls with confidence.
21 May 2025What Is Trauma-Informed Counselling and Why Is It Relevant to Safety People?Discover what trauma-informed counselling is and why it's essential knowledge for safety professionals. Learn how trauma impacts risk, behaviour, and workplace safety
21 May 2025Supervision as a ControlDiscover why Supervision as a Control is critical for managing risk in high-risk tasks, young workers, and low-control environments. Learn what makes it effective.
20 May 2025Why Long Lists of Controls Aren't EffectiveDiscover why long lists of controls aren't effective in managing workplace risk. Learn how different types of risk controls work together and why documentation alone won’t keep people safe.
13 May 2025What is a Risk Bowtie Analysis?The Risk Bowtie Analysis is a tool used to understand the causes of unwanted events & identify critical controls. Transform your approach to risk & enrol now.
9 May 2025Is Your Incident Management System Working as Intended?Is your incident management system working as intended? Uncover recurring issues, missed learnings and control failures with a full audit aligned to ISO 19011, ISO 45001 and ISO 31000.
4 May 2025Professional Development Pathways for Women in WHS and Risk RolesExplore professional development pathways for women in WHS and risk roles. Build confidence, leadership skills, and career clarity in safety and audit.
1 May 2025Is Your Monthly Pay Cycle Costing You Staff?Is Your Monthly Pay Cycle Costing You Staff? Discover how outdated payroll cycles are driving high turnover, financial stress, and psychosocial hazards — and why more frequent pay may be the key to retention in today’s cost-of-living crisis.
23 Apr 2025Risk Management TerminologyConfused by risk management jargon? This guide breaks down essential risk management terminology – from enterprise, operational and safety risks to critical controls, risk assessments, governance, and more. Written in plain English for real-world application.
23 Apr 2025Understanding The Different Types of Risk AssessmentsExplore the different types of risk assessments including WRAC, JSEA, SWMS, Bowtie, HAZOP, HAZID, Take 5 and SLAM. Learn when and how to use these tools.
15 Apr 2025Why Consultation Isn’t Just a Legal RequirementDiscover why consultation isn’t just a legal requirement under WHS law—it’s a powerful strategy for improving safety, reducing risk, and building a stronger workplace culture.
13 Apr 2025Should a Critical Control Failure Trigger a HPI?Should a Critical Control Failure Trigger a HPI? Discover why control failures—whether they cause an incident or are found during verification—deserve serious attention. Learn how to align your critical control program with HPI thresholds and mature your safety systems.
12 Apr 2025Critical Controls for Psychosocial HazardsDiscover how Critical Controls for Psychosocial Hazards must be hazard-specific, system-based, and built into work design—not just policy or training.
12 Apr 2025Why Aging Infrastructure is a Silent but Growing RiskWhy aging infrastructure is a silent but growing risk for businesses. Explore how structural integrity, process safety, and climate change impacts are exposing hidden vulnerabilities in older assets – and what you can do to stay ahead.
11 Apr 2025Wellness, Mental Health and Their Role in Safety and Risk ManagementDiscover how wellness and mental health impact workplace safety and risk management. Learn why mentally healthy teams lead to safer, more productive businesses.
10 Apr 2025What is a Critical Control Performance Standard?Learn what a Critical Control Performance Standard is, why it’s essential for managing high-risk hazards, and how to develop one that ensures your controls actually work when it matters most.
10 Apr 2025What is Risk Tolerance?Understand what risk tolerance really means for your organisation. Learn how to define, document and embed risk tolerance into your risk management framework to support smarter, safer decisions.
10 Apr 2025What Is a Mitigating Control?Discover what a mitigating control is, why it matters, and how it helps reduce harm after an incident. Learn the difference between preventative and mitigating controls.
8 Apr 2025Why It’s Time to Rethink Personal Risk Assessment ToolsWhy It’s Time to Rethink Personal Risk Assessment Tools. Take 5s and SLAMs are outdated. Discover a smarter, reusable tool that actually helps manage risk.
7 Apr 2025NSW Government Extends Mental Health Support to Additional Frontline WorkersNSW Government Extends Mental Health Support to Additional Frontline Workers
7 Apr 2025Developing Effective Risk Management ProcessesDiscover how to create or enhance your risk management framework with our comprehensive guide on Developing Effective Risk Management Processes. Learn about risk matrices, consultation, clear templates, and embedding risk literacy across your business for consistent, practical outcomes.
6 Apr 2025The Fundamental Flaw of the Risk Matrix ToolExplore The Fundamental Flaw of the Risk Matrix Tool—why high-consequence, low-likelihood risks are often overlooked. Learn more in this blog.
6 Apr 2025Are Your Controls Too Complex for Workers to Understand?Are Your Controls Too Complex for Workers to Understand? Discover why effective control implementation depends on worker comprehension, training frameworks, and simplifying complex processes. Learn how to assess control complexity and enhance risk management through Worker-Centric Control Verification (WCCV).
6 Apr 2025Discomfort is Critical to Effective Risk ManagementDiscover why Discomfort is Critical to Effective Risk Management. Learn how confronting difficult conversations about safety, systems, and processes throughout the risk management cycle leads to stronger governance, improved decision-making, and enhanced resilience.
3 Apr 2025Understanding Control FailureIn risk management, we spend so much time discussing whether controls are effective under normal conditions. But what if they fail? And more importantly, do we understand how quickly could that failure lead to a catastrophic event?
3 Apr 2025Velocity: Why Speed Matters in Risk ManagementVelocity: Why Speed Matters in Risk Management. When people think about risk, they focus only on likelihood and consequence. But there's another critical factor that deserves attention: Risk Velocity.
3 Apr 2025Enhancing Administrative and PPE Controls with Engineered ReliabilityEnhancing Administrative and PPE Controls with Engineered Reliability. Engineering solutions aren’t limited to elimination, substitution, or isolation controls. They can be applied to enhance the effectiveness of administrative controls and PPE by introducing automated systems, monitoring technologies, and fail-safe mechanisms.
2 Apr 2025Risk 101: Understanding the Basics of Risk ManagementUnderstanding risk management is essential for every business. Learn the basics of risk identification, assessment, and control, including tools like the risk matrix, Hierarchy of Control, and ISO 31000 standards to create a safer, more resilient operation.
31 Mar 2025Unconceivable Risks: Overlooking the UnimaginableDiscover why unconceived risks often go unmanaged in organisations due to cultural biases, leadership ego, lack of experience, and inadequate consultation. Learn how asking “what if?” and acknowledging external standards can improve risk awareness and control effectiveness.
31 Mar 2025The Importance of Independent Risk Professionals in Project ManagementLearn why your project management needs an independent risk professional to enhance planning, execution, and feedback processes. Contact Orana Skills Centre for expert support.
29 Mar 2025When Was the Last Time You Reviewed Your Risks?Discover the benefits of conducting regular Risk Review Workshops to identify, assess, and manage evolving risks. Ensure leadership alignment, validate controls, and proactively address safety, operational, psychosocial, financial, and regulatory threats.
27 Mar 2025Investigative Risk Management: A New Approach to Preventing FailureLearn how Investigative Risk Management uses forensic techniques to strengthen risk systems, verify critical controls, and prevent failure before it happens.- 16 Mar 2025Psychosocial Hazards: The People We Sometimes ForgetPsychosocial hazards don’t just affect frontline workers—first responders, investigators & safety teams need real risk management too. Find out how to protect them.
9 Mar 2025Introduction to Risk Bowtie AnalysisDiscover how Risk Bowtie Analysis can enhance workplace safety and compliance. Learn the fundamentals, WHS requirements, and how to build effective bowtie diagrams. Join our 2-hour online training to master risk bowties and improve risk management. Book now!- 9 Mar 2025Introduction to Psychosocial Risk Management and WHS ComplianceLearn how to manage psychosocial risks and ensure WHS compliance with our in-depth guide. Understand ISO 45003, workers’ compensation for psychological injuries, and the importance of a risk register. Join our 2-hour online training to develop a compliant psychosocial risk register. Book now!
24 Feb 2025Are Your SWMS in Place for Compliance or Risk Management?Learn how to ensure your Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) are more than just paperwork. Discover how to improve risk management, meet regulatory requirements, and empower workers for a safer workplace.
Transform your SWMS from a compliance tick-box into a dynamic risk management tool. Discover best practices, regulatory insights, and strategies to truly safeguard your workplace.
17 Feb 2025Why Safety, Risk, and Audit Consulting is Key to a Thriving Business in 2025Discover why Safety, Risk, and Audit Consulting is essential for business success in 2025. Ensure compliance, mitigate risks, and drive operational excellence.
27 Jan 2025Rethinking "Dropped or Falling Objects" in Working at Heights Risk Management StrategiesIs your dropped objects risk management strategy too narrow? Learn how to address all drop risks, from tools to structural failures. Read more in our guide!
26 Jan 2025Social Media Landmines: How to Avoid Reputational Harm Before It Destroys Your BrandProtect your brand from social media crises with proactive risk management, employee training, and influencer strategies. Learn how to safeguard your business!
24 Jan 2025Should you Appoint Risk and Control Owners?Wondering if your business needs Risk and Control Owners? Learn why appointing clear accountability is essential in this in depth blog.
7 Jan 2025Effective Action Management Guide: A Guide to Precision and ImpactMaster effective action management with SMART principles, risk prioritisation, and auditable outcomes. Learn how to address hazards, incidents, and audits!
7 Jan 2025Choosing the Right Safety, Risk, and Audit SupportDiscover how to choose the right Safety, Risk, and Audit support for your business in 2025. Get expert insights and cost-effective solutions. Read more now!
31 Dec 2024Setting Safety and Risk Management Goals for 2025 | Orana BlogReflect on 2024’s safety and risk challenges and set goals for 2025. Learn how proactive risk management builds resilience, compliance, and workplace culture.
1 Dec 2024Top Safety and Risk Challenges Businesses Will Face in 2025 | BlogExplore the top safety and risk challenges for businesses in 2025. Learn how proactive strategies and expert partnerships can future-proof your compliance!
28 Nov 2024Managing the Critical Risks of Hazardous Equipment: Protecting Workers and Preventing Disabling InjuriesManaging the Critical Risks of Hazardous Equipment: Discover strategies to prevent disabling injuries like degloving, scalping, and amputations. Learn about effective controls, safe practices, and emergency preparedness for managing hazardous equipment risks.
26 Nov 2024Bridging Risk Management and Incident Investigations: A Continuous Cycle of ImprovementIn the complex and dynamic landscape of workplace safety, risk management and incident investigations are often treated as separate processes, operating in silos. The disconnect results in missed opportunities to prevent future incidents, improve control systems, and foster a culture of proactive safety management. To create a truly effective safety management system, these two processes must inform and reinforce one another in an ongoing cycle of learning and improvement.
26 Nov 2024Managing Noise and Hearing Loss in the Workplace | Orana BlogWorkplace noise management is more than compliance—it’s about protecting health and productivity. Learn how to assess risks and prevent hearing loss.
24 Nov 2024Build An Effective Risk RegisterLearn how to build a comprehensive, actionable risk register for your organisation. Follow this step-by-step guide to improve risk management effectiveness.
23 Nov 2024Electrical Energy Critical Risk Management | Orana Skills BlogReduce electrical energy risks with bowtie analysis, critical controls, and robust management. Learn how to mitigate live-line hazards, battery fires, and more.
19 Nov 2024Confined Space Critical Risk ManagementConfined Space Critical Risk Management. Working in confined spaces poses unique and serious risks, but these can be effectively managed with the right tools and processes. By identifying potential hazards, implementing robust controls, and verifying their effectiveness, organisations can protect workers and ensure safe operations.
19 Nov 2024Regular Reviews For Critical Risk Management | Orana BlogWhy Regular Reviews Are Essential for Critical Risk Management. Regular reviews of critical risk programs ensure your organisation remains compliant, effective, and adaptive to changing circumstances. Whether you're dealing with high-risk industries like mining, construction, or logistics, or managing risks in more stable environments, reviewing your critical risks is crucial for staying ahead.
19 Nov 2024Managing Critical Risks: Insights From Orana Skills CentreOver the past decade, industries worldwide have faced significant challenges in managing critical risks. From working at heights to hazardous materials, the potential for high-consequence incidents has demanded continuous improvement in safety standards and control measures. 
19 Nov 2024Working at Heights Critical Risk Management | Orana BlogManage working at heights risks with structured hazard identification, robust controls, and ongoing verification to prevent falls and enhance workplace safety."
18 Nov 2024Mobile Equipment Critical Risk ManagementMobile equipment interactions remain one of the most significant risks across industries. Learn the potential consequences and how risk management prevents it.
18 Nov 2024Why Dynamic WHS Systems Will Replace Traditional SystemsAs industries evolve, the shift to dynamic WHS systems will be essential for creating safer, more resilient workplaces. It is a fact that dynamic WHS systems will replace traditional systems and the time to embrace this transformation is now.
17 Nov 2024Implementing Psychosocial Risk Management: A Practical GuideThis guide outlines the steps required to implement a psychosocial risk management program, drawing from the Code of Practice for Psychosocial Hazards and other best practices.
16 Nov 2024The Evolution of WHS: A Global PerspectiveThe evolution of workplace health and safety reflects society’s evolving priorities, from the prevention of physical harm to the promotion of overall well-being.
16 Nov 2024Understanding the Brady Review: Insights and Implementation for Safer WorkplacesThe Brady Review has been a turning point for workplace safety in high-risk industries, particularly mining and resources. Commissioned in response to rising concerns about safety and fatalities, the review provides critical learnings and actionable recommendations for improving safety management systems, embedding risk awareness, and ultimately saving lives.
15 Nov 2024WHS Requirements for Organisations Managing Volunteers in AustraliaWHS Requirements for Organisations Managing Volunteers. Volunteers are an integral part of many organisations, and their safety should be prioritised through effective WHS management. By understanding legislative requirements, providing appropriate training, and managing hazards proactively, organisations can ensure a safe and fulfilling experience for volunteers while maintaining compliance with WHS laws.
14 Nov 2024Top 5 Business WHS Essentials for Compliance and ProductivityBoost compliance & productivity with these 5 WHS essentials. Protect your team, enhance efficiency, and build a safer, more successful workplace.- 14 Nov 2024A Guide to Strengthening Your Critical Risk or Fatal Risk ProgramBy implementing a comprehensive Critical Control Management program, your organisation can build a safer, more resilient work environment.
14 Nov 2024Embracing Chronic Unease in Workplace Safety: A Guide | OranaEmbracing chronic unease in workplace safety fosters awareness, resilience, and proactive risk management, ensuring a safer environment for all workers.
10 Nov 2024Risk Matrix | Effective Risk Prioritisation | BlogA risk matrix is a visual tool used to assess potential events by evaluating their likelihood and impact. Learn how it enhances risk management decisions.
10 Nov 2024Understanding and Interpreting Health & Safety LegislationLearn how to interpret health and safety legislation, meet compliance standards, and apply the ‘reasonably practicable’ approach for a safer workplace.
10 Nov 2024Building a Strong Safety Culture | Orana Skill Centre | BlogBuild a strong safety culture with collaboration, leadership, and proactive strategies. Learn how to foster a workplace where safety is valued and embraced.
10 Nov 2024How to Get into a Safety JobWant a career in workplace safety? Discover key roles, skills, and qualifications needed, plus career pathways to land your ideal safety job.
10 Nov 2024Respect@Work: A Guide to the StrategyExplore the Respect@Work strategy and its impact on Australian workplaces. Learn key legal obligations and best practices for preventing workplace harassment.
10 Nov 2024Transitioning Traditional Safety Roles to Include Risk ManagementDiscover why adding 'risk' to safety roles isn’t always effective. Learn the key differences between safety and risk management and how to structure roles correctly.
10 Nov 2024Practical Tips on How to Facilitate an Effective Risk AssessmentFacilitating an effective risk assessment should encourage collaboration and participation from the right SMEs to produce valuable insights and actionable steps.- 10 Nov 2024Conducting an Internal Audit Against ISO 31000: Step-By-Step GuideLearn how to conduct an internal audit using ISO 31000. Improve risk management, identify gaps, and enhance compliance with this step-by-step guide.
10 Nov 2024Understanding and Interpreting ISO 31000: A Guide to Effective Risk ManagementISO 31000: A Guide to Effective Risk Management is the internationally recognised standard for risk management, providing a framework for organisations to identify, assess, and mitigate risks across all sectors and activities. First published in 2009 and revised in 2018, ISO 31000 offers a comprehensive approach to risk management that helps organisations build resilience, improve decision-making, and achieve objectives even in uncertain environments. 
10 Nov 2024Understanding Industrial Manslaughter in NSW: Definitions, Penalties, and Duty HoldersIndustrial manslaughter is one of the most serious offences under workplace health and safety (WHS) laws, aimed at holding organisations and their officers accountable for preventable workplace fatalities. In New South Wales (NSW), industrial manslaughter laws impose significant penalties on organisations and individuals when a workplace death results from gross negligence. Understanding these laws, penalties, and definitions is essential for all duty holders committed to workplace safety.
10 Nov 2024Understanding Safety Representatives & Committees in Australia:Learn how safety representatives and committees enhance workplace safety in Australia. Explore their roles, responsibilities, and WHS legislative requirements.
10 Nov 2024What is a High Reliability Organisation? Orana Skills Centre BlogDiscover High Reliability Organisations (HROs)—high-risk environments with exceptional safety and operational success. Learn how HROs maintain reliability and success.
10 Nov 2024Understanding Australia’s New Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS) LegislationUnderstand Australia’s new Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS) legislation. Learn compliance requirements and how to effectively manage silica hazards in the workplace.- 10 Nov 2024Understanding Australia’s Psychosocial Legislation | BlogLearn about the growing importance of managing psychosocial hazards in the workplace. Explore new regulations and how to identify, assess, and control these risks.
- 9 Nov 2024What is a Critical Control? Understanding Prevention, Mitigation, and the Essentials of Effective Risk ManagementWhat is a Critical Control? Understanding Prevention, Mitigation, and the Essentials of Effective Risk Management
9 Nov 2024Overcoming the Fear of Too Many Risks | Read Orana Skills BlogWhy do organisations fear identifying too many risks? If you are on a journey of overcoming the fear of too many risks, you've made a good start.