Safety is union business.

Welcome to the CPSU SafetyFirst Network website

We’ve created this page to support union members with all things work health and safety.

We recommend that you bookmark this website as it will be continuously updated with new resources.

The CPSU Safety First Network is for union members, delegates and elected Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) in their workplace

The network aims to provide union members and delegates with:

  • Networking opportunities with other like-minded union members who are passionate about work health and safety
  • Opportunities to influence your union's WHS organising agenda in your agency
  • Information about Work Health and Safety matters affecting your agency and the APS.

The network aims to provide HSRs with:

  • Opportunities to consult and discuss health and safety issues with the CPSU and other HSRs
  • Information and technical advice on health and safety matters relevant to workers, including via webinars, phone conferences and workplace visits
  • Opportunities to consult and discuss health and safety issues with subject matter experts such as Safe Work Australia and Comcare, and professionals on specific health and safety matters
  • Access to advice and assistance when exercising HSR powers and functions
  • Advice on accredited health and safety training courses
  • Support when representing workers on work health and safety matters in the workplace, including attendance at health and safety committees.
Sign-up to the Safety First Network to help make your workplace safer for everyone.

CPSU Submission to the Review of the SRC Act 1988

The CPSU is committed to advocating for safe and fair workplace conditions for all its members. In December 2024, we completed a comprehensive submission to the review of the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988 (SRC Act). This submission highlights key recommendations to improve worker safety, compensation frameworks, and rehabilitation processes.

You can read the full submission to understand the CPSU's position and advocacy efforts in ensuring a safer and more supportive work environment.


Membership matters

CPSU members will need to sign in to access these resources.

If you’re not yet a member, you will need to join to access the full range of resources and to get individual support. Joining the CPSU not only adds to your collective strength in the workplace, it enables us to produce WHS content that assists members keep others safe.

Accredited HSR training

The Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) and state and territory Trades Halls are accredited by Comcare to provide training for elected HSRs.

The CPSU strongly encourages the use of union training providers

Find out more here

Critical Incident Service

CPSU members in eligible law enforcement roles now have access to free criminal law advice through Slater + Gordon Lawyers’ Critical Incident Service.

It’s another way CPSU protects members in front line jobs when it counts. Download the factsheet 

Contact us

If you have WHS questions about WHS matters for your workplace, you can email [email protected] for support.

WHS resources for members, delegates and HSRs

Guides for HSRs