University of Newcastle Wins Best WHS Training Program at the 2026 Hunter Safety Awards

At the 2026 Hunter Safety Awards, the University of Newcastle was recognised with the Best WHS Training Program Award for its innovative and evidence-based approach to psychosocial safety through leadership development.

In a workplace landscape where psychosocial hazards are increasingly front of mind, the University of Newcastle has set itself apart by redefining what effective WHS training can look like — positioning leadership behaviour itself as a critical control.

Their recognition reflects a powerful shift in workplace health and safety: safer workplaces are not only created through systems and compliance, but through leaders who actively shape supportive, psychologically safe environments.

Redefining Psychosocial Safety Through Leadership

The University of Newcastle’s nomination showcased:

• Evidence-based program design

• Leadership-focused psychosocial safety

• Measurable wellbeing and confidence improvements

• Stronger team dynamics and healthier workplace cultures

At the centre of this recognition is the Leading WELL program — a 30-day, evidence-based initiative designed to equip leaders with the tools, confidence, and capability to create more supportive teams.

Rather than treating psychosocial safety as a standalone issue, the program addresses it where it matters most: through leadership behaviour and workplace culture.

Real Results, Real Impact

With more than 130 leaders already through the program, Leading WELL has delivered measurable improvements in:

• Wellbeing

• Confidence

• Team dynamics

• Leadership capability

This is not simply training for compliance — it is a practical, transformative initiative creating a growing movement of leaders committed to healthier workplaces.

The judges recognised that this program goes beyond education.

It is actively influencing how leaders show up, how teams function, and how workplaces prevent harm before it occurs.

Building the Future of WHS

What makes this program so significant is its broader industry relevance.

As psychosocial safety continues to evolve, organisations need practical, evidence-based solutions that create long-term behavioural and cultural change.

The University of Newcastle’s Leading WELL program demonstrates exactly that.

It proves that exceptional WHS training is not just about knowledge transfer — it is about shaping leadership, culture, and the future of workplace safety.

Proudly Sponsored by PLUS ES

The Best WHS Training Program Award was proudly sponsored by PLUS ES, whose support reflects a strong commitment to capability-building, innovation, and the future of workplace safety.

Congratulations, University of Newcastle!

Through evidence-based innovation and a powerful commitment to healthier workplaces, the University of Newcastle is leading the way in modern WHS education.

Their work is not only improving leaders — it is helping shape safer, healthier workplace cultures for the future.

Congratulations on this outstanding and well-deserved recognition!