Our blog shares practical insights on Safety in Design, WHS legislation, and risk management across the built environment. Articles are written for designers, engineers, and duty holders seeking to reduce risk early in the design process and meet Australian regulatory requirements.
In 2025, the rules around Safety in Design didn’t change — but how they were applied did. This reflection looks at what shifted in practice across architecture, infrastructure and public-sector projects, and how earlier engagement, better conversations and practical thinking are shaping stronger design outcomes.
by Leo Fan — Senior Risk Consultant at Safe Design Australia When we think about safety, most of us picture what happens on-site — helmets, harnesses, high-risk work. But safety actually starts much earlier, and often in a place
by Rebekah Colman Senior Risk Consultant at Safe Design Australia In the world of design and construction, safety and compliance with legislation is often framed as a checklist—something to be ticked off to meet regulatory requirements. But what if we
Safe Design in Practice: Construction Phase Safe Design Lifecycle: The Construction Phase Designers need to consider safety of people during the lifecycle of the structure when it will be used as a workplace. The main phases are during: construction of
Insurance Considerations for Designers Insurance considerations – are you covered? It is important that designers are aware of what is covered by their insurance policies in relation to Safe Design and WHS legislation. Professional indemnity insurance will cover the
Safe Design Legislation and Harmonisation Legislation and Regulation As a designer, are you fully aware of the work health and safety legislation and regulations in the State or Territory that you practice? In 2009, Safe Work Australia (SWA), was established to
Build a bridge. Get over it. Bridge building and safe design Over the past few months, bridge building construction and safety has been a hot topic – from the tragedy of the Genoa Bridge collapse, to the opening of
Safe Design in Practice: Workshops Safe Design Workshops Designers can identify hazards to eliminate or minimise risk in design, construction and use of a structure by consulting with other duty holders through formal Safe Design Workshops. An early workshop –
Fire safety considerations for multi-storey childcare facilities Fire safety for childcare centres in highrise buildings. The Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) raised an important topic recently around the changing use of highrise buildings for facilities other than office or
Safe design doesn’t have to be boring! The ‘Not boring safe design course’. Safe design can prevent injury, improve productivity and usability, reduce costs, and help manage production and operations of your design projects. But most importantly, it incorporates
Safe Design Legislation – Some Definitions The following are definitions of key terms and aspects from Australia’s Safe Design Legislation, explaining the various parties and contributors as well as key elements in the WHS Act and legislation. Here we explain:
Case Study: Safety in Design for Residential Structures Safety in Design for Residential structures This case study for safety in design for residential structures is a compilation of design planning and structure issues from several different residential building and renovation
Job Role in SDA
SIA Certified Safety Professional, Postgraduate Diploma (Occupational Health & Safety), Bachelor of Applied Science (Construction Management), Diploma of Teaching, CPTED – NSW Police, Member UNSW Expert Witness Panel.
John is the Director of Safe Design Australia, recognised internationally for his leadership in Safety in Design, WHS and risk management. With over two decades of experience across construction, telecommunications, infrastructure and education, he has driven industry change for organisations including Vodafone Global, NBN Co and the NSW Government, and steered several industry bodies toward excellence in Safe Design and WHS.
aA certified Safety Professional and expert witness, John turns complex legislation into practical design solutions that improve safety outcomes. His strategic approach and collaborative style continue to shape best practice across Australia and the Asia–Pacific, helping architects, engineers and regulators embed safety from concept to completion.
When not guiding projects or mentoring the next generation of Safety in Design professionals, John can be found sailing through Southeast Asia, racing in the Sydney to Hobart, or on a motorcycle exploring roads less travelled.
