FAQs
Got a question about the Hunter Safety Awards? You'll probably find the answer below. If not, get in touch — we're always happy to help.
01
What are the Hunter Safety Awards?
The Hunter Safety Awards recognise businesses and individuals across the Hunter Region who are leading the way in workplace health, safety and wellbeing. Running since 2016, the Awards celebrate everything from safety innovation and training to health and wellbeing programs — not just compliance.
02
When are the Hunter Safety Awards held?
The Hunter Safety Awards are held annually, typically in May. We are currently in the process of finalising the date for 2027.
03
Where are the Hunter Safety Awards held?
We are currently in the process of finalising the venue for 2027.
04
Who can enter the Hunter Safety Awards?
Any business, organisation or individual based in or connected to the Hunter Region who is doing genuine work in workplace health, safety or wellbeing can enter. You can nominate yourself, your team or your organisation, and you're welcome to apply across more than one category if you meet the criteria for each.
05
How do I nominate for the Hunter Safety Awards?
Nominations open each November through the Award Force platform, linked from our Awards page. You'll be asked to outline your initiative or achievement against the published criteria for your chosen category — submissions close in late February.
06
Is there a cost to enter?
There is no cost associated with submitting a nomination for the Hunter Safety Awards.
07
What are the award categories?
The Hunter Safety Awards celebrate excellence across eight categories: WHS Business of the Year, Best WHS Training Program, Best Health and Wellbeing Program, Best WHS Management System, Best WHS Innovative & Improvement, Young WHS Leader of the Year, WHS Rising Star Award, and WHS Champion of the Year. Most categories are split into Large and SME divisions.
08
How are the Hunter Safety Awards judged?
Every submission is first reviewed for eligibility, then assessed by an independent judging panel using a published, points-based scoring matrix. From there, the panel determines finalists and winners. Judges are selected for their professional WHS expertise and must declare any conflicts of interest.
09
Does sponsorship influence who wins?
No. Sponsorship and judging are kept strictly separate. Our Governance Framework explicitly states that partnership with the Hunter Safety Awards does not influence judging outcomes, and the judging process operates independently of both sponsors and the Advisory Panel.
10
What is the Advisory Panel, and is it the same as the judging panel?
No — they're different groups with different jobs. The Advisory Panel is made up of independent local WHS professionals who provide strategic guidance on things like category design, governance and community engagement. It does not judge submissions or decide winners. That's the job of the separate, independent judging panel.
11
Who sits on the judging panel?
Our judges are selected based on their professional WHS expertise and industry experience across the Hunter Region.
12
How do I get tickets to the Hunter Safety Awards?
Tickets can be purchased directly through our Events page. Ticket packages typically include a three-course dinner, drinks, and entry to the awards ceremony, with discounted rates available for corporate tables.
13
What do finalists and winners receive?
Finalists receive website and social media coverage, a certificate to display in their workplace, and a FINALIST logo to promote their achievement. Winners receive the same recognition plus an award to display and a WINNER logo.
14
How can my organisation become a sponsor or partner?
We offer five partnership tiers — Community, Bronze, Silver, Gold and Strategic — designed to suit different goals, from simply supporting the Hunter WHS community through to year-round thought leadership collaboration. Email us at admin@huntersafetyawards.com.au to talk through the right fit for your organisation.
15
Who do I contact with more questions?
You can reach the Hunter Safety Awards organising committee at admin@huntersafetyawards.com.au, or submit a question through the contact form on our Contact page.