WorkSafe Victoria welcomes new CEO

WorkSafe Victoria Welcomes New CEO

Cathy Henderson has been appointed as the new CEO of WorkSafe Victoria, taking on the top job at one of Australia's largest work health and safety regulators.

Her arrival, confirmed in this safety news update, follows a period of scheme modernisation and sharpened focus on reducing harm for injured workers.

Appointment at a Glance

• New chief executive officer: Cathy Henderson
• Regulator: WorkSafe Victoria
• Announced by: Deputy Premier Ben Carroll, who oversees WorkSafe and the TAC
• Experience: community, regulatory and public sector leadership, plus council-level roles
• Stated priorities: lower harm rates and stronger support for people recovering from injury

What Was Said About the Appointment

Deputy Premier and Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC Ben Carroll praised Ms Henderson for her new role, recognising her extensive experience in community, regulatory, and public sectors along with her solid background in local government.

“I congratulate Ms Henderson on her appointment. Her expertise and wealth of experience will build on the Government’s commitment to reduce workplace harm and improve outcomes for injured workers,” the Minister said.

“Every worker deserves to come home safe from work. It’s why we are modernising the WorkCover scheme, giving security to Victorian workers, supporting businesses and keeping the system sustainable for the future.”

Ms Henderson's appointment was also welcomed by Bob Cameron, the Chair of WorkSafe.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ms Henderson to the role of CEO and I look forward to working with her as she leads WorkSafe to achieve our safety targets and enhance return to work pathways,” Bob said.

Why This Appointment Matters for Work Health and Safety

Regulator leadership shapes enforcement priorities, inspection campaigns and published guidance. So news of a change at the helm deserves attention from employers, contractors and duty holders operating across Victoria.

Practitioners in construction, manufacturing and medical settings should track regulator news releases, revised codes of practice and premium reforms as fresh priorities take shape under incoming leadership.

Practical Steps for Duty Holders

• Audit your safety management system against current WorkSafe Victoria guidance and model codes of practice
• Refresh risk assessments, SWMS and site induction records
• Monitor official news channels for scheme changes affecting premiums and claims
• Coach supervisors so hazard reports reach decision makers quickly

Victorian builders and designers can shortcut documentation gaps with our Architectural SWMS Pack – Victoria, or create a fresh record using our New Document templates.

More Regulator News From Across the Region

Leadership transitions are not unique to Victoria. Read how WorkSafe NZ appoints new CEO, and see why WorkCover Queensland welcomes new CEO mattered to insured employers.

For background on earlier transitions at the same regulator, our report explains how a new chief executive takes charge at WorkSafe Victoria. Businesses trading across the Tasman can also review our New Zealand compliance documentation range.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the organisation's next CEO?

Cathy Henderson. Announcement news confirmed her selection following a career spanning community services, regulation and public administration.

What will change for employers?

Core duties remain unchanged. Expect continued attention on psychological hazards, injury recovery pathways and sustainable scheme settings, so keep documentation current.

Where can employers find the official statement?

Additional information is available here through the regulator's own news release.