Workplace health and safety

A Quick Guide for Volunteers

It is best practice for clubs to provide safe workplaces and practices for all volunteers and workers, as laid out under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (the WHS Act). This resource does not constitute legal advice. Clubs requiring more information on the WHS Act should seek their own legal advice.

For clubs with one or more employees: 

Any club that employs workers in any capacity are considered a ‘Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking’ (PCBU) under the WHS Act. They are then legally required to provide safe workplaces and practices for all paid and volunteer workers, as laid out under WHS Act. Read more about your requirements under the WHS Act. 

For volunteer-only clubs:

If your club does not have any paid staff and only volunteers, the club is not considered a PCBU and therefore, the WHS Act does not apply to your club. Even though the WHS Act does not apply, it is best practice to adopt safe workplace strategies for all people associated with your club. 

For the management committee:

Volunteer management committee members cannot be prosecuted for failing to comply with their ‘officer duties’ under the WHS Act. However, they can be prosecuted in their capacity as a worker if they fail to take reasonable care for their own health and safety and not to create risks to others.

Safety is everyone’s responsibility

All clubs should adhere to the principles of good workplace health and safety.

By following these best practices, you can help create a safe environment for everyone at your club.

• Take reasonable care for your health and safety in the workplace
• Take reasonable care for the health and safety of others who may be affected by your actions
• Be aware of the potential risks and hazards in your sport or activities, including supporting activities such as mowing, line marking or building maintenance.
• Follow any reasonable health and safety instructions set by the club, including correct use of equipment, following guidelines for safe conduct and adhering to any specific safety rules for the sport or activity
• Ask for help if you are not sure how to safely perform your task
• If you identify a potential hazard or risk, report it to the appropriate person in the club immediately. See the ‘Risk management‘ section for more details.
• Ensure there is access to first aid equipment and to someone trained in first aid.
• Participate in training and education regarding health and safety. This will help you stay updated on best practices and understand your responsibilities.
• Understand the club’s emergency procedures, including procedures in the event of an incident (see ‘Risk management‘ section).