BSB51319 Diploma of Work Health and Safety
A practical qualification for professionals responsible for safer, compliant workplaces. Develop skills in WHS systems, risk management, and leading organisational health and safety practices.
12 industry-aligned units covering core competencies
What Is the Diploma of Work Health and Safety?
The BSB51319 Diploma of Work Health and Safety is a nationally recognised qualification for safety professionals who already carry real WHS responsibility but want the credential to match it. You might be a safety officer, coordinator or advisor who runs investigations, leads consultation and keeps people safe under constant operational pressure.
This Diploma formalises that work. It builds capability in WHS risk management, safety management systems, incident response and investigation, emergency planning, worker consultation and psychosocial health. Assessments are based on real workplace projects rather than exams, so the learning applies directly to your role.
It is designed for people who already hold a Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety and are ready to step up. The qualification suits those moving into a WHS advisor or management role, and anyone who needs recognised proof of capability after an audit, incident or employer request.
Build Confidence in WHS Leadership and Risk Management
Working in WHS means constantly balancing urgency, compliance, human behaviour and operational reality. You’re expected to guide others, influence decisions, and respond to incidents — often without enough recognition for the complexity involved. Many safety professionals develop their skills on the job but never receive formal validation.
This Diploma strengthens and formalises your existing experience. It deepens your understanding of WHS systems, risk management, emergency response and psychological health, while building trusted leadership capability. The focus is practical, workplace-based, and designed for people already managing or supporting safety responsibilities.
Whether you aim to step into a WHS advisor role, progress into management, or simply gain more confidence in high-accountability situations, this qualification provides a grounded, respected pathway forward.
What You'll Develop
Quick Facts
Duration
9–16 months (self-paced, fast-track available)Study Mode
100% online – self-paced and flexible, with people to help when you need itAssessment
Workplace projects — no examsSupport
Unlimited trainer support by phone and emailCredit Transfer and RPL Pathways
If you have any past studies or experience, you may be eligible to receive credit where possible. This means you don’t need to relearn what you already know and can significantly reduce your study time by up to 60%. Most experienced workers save 3 to 6 months of study time through RPL. Your practical experience has real value and we help you prove it.
Comprehensive Curriculum
Units
Each module typically takes around 4 weeks to complete but can be completed faster if your personal time allows.BSBWHS521
Ensure a Safe Workplace for a Work Area
BSBWHS522
Manage WHS Consultation and Participation Processes
BSBWHS513
Lead WHS Risk Management
BSBWHS516
Contribute to Developing, Implementing and Maintaining an Organisation’s WHS Management System
BSBWHS517
Contribute to Managing a WHS Information System
BSBWHS515
Lead Initial Response to and Investigate WHS Incidents
BSBWHS520
Manage Implementation of Emergency Procedures
BSBWHS512
Contribute to Managing Work-Related Psychological Health and Safety
BSBWHS519
Lead the Development and Use of WHS Risk Management Tools
BSBOPS504
Manage Business Risk
Comprehensive Curriculum
Entry Requirements
To make sure this course is the right fit and that you’re set up for success, you’ll need to meet the following entry requirements.Age: 25 Years or over
Academic Suitability: Proof of completing:
– Year 12/Senior Certificate; or
– An AQF Qualification at Level 4 or above (Australian Certificate IV, Diploma, University Degree); or
– Pass a Government approved LLN Test. (You must display competence at or above Exit level 3 in both numeracy and literacy)
Language Requirements- See 'English Language Entry Requirements' for more informationMandatory Prerequisites:
To successfully enrol into this course each participant must submit a copy of their completed BSB41412, BSB41415 or BSB41419 Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety Statement of Results showing completion of the following core units of competency:
– BSBWHS412 Assist with workplace compliance with WHS laws (or BSBWHS402A, BSBWHS402)
– BSBWHS413 Contribute to implementation and maintenance of WHS consultation and participation processes (or BSBWHS403A, BSBWHS403)
– BSBWHS414 Contribute to WHS risks management (or BSBWHS404A, BSBWHS404)
– BSBWHS415 Contribute to implementing WHS management systems (or BSBWHS405A, BSBWHS405)
– BSBWHS416 Contribute to workplace incident response (or BSBWHS406A, BSBWHS406)
A statement of results showing completion of the above prerequisites must be provided at enrolment into the Diploma. Please note that BSB41407 – Certificate IV in Occupational Health and Safety is not equivalent, and does not meet the prerequisite requirements
Language Requirements- See 'English Language Entry Requirements' for more informationHonest WarningPeople without the recommended experience often struggle and may not complete the course. This is simply due to the level of responsibility required in the assessments. If you have any past studies or experience, you may be eligible to receive credit where possible. This means you don’t need to relearn what you already know and can significantly reduce your study time by up to 60%.
Comprehensive Curriculum