AI, Regulation & the Future of Safety: Key Takeaways from the AIHS NSW Safety Symposium 2026

Zenergy’s Head of Interim Solutions, Matthew Owen, and I attended the annual AIHS NSW Safety Symposium — a standout event for HSE professionals across Australia. From keynote presentations to open discussions and industry networking, the day brought together leaders shaping the future of workplace health, safety and wellbeing. It was also an opportunity to hear directly from regulators, including the NSW SafeWork Commissioner, Janet Schorer, on the direction of policy and enforcement.

And yes — a behind-the-scenes tour of the Sydney Cricket Ground and Allianz Stadium was an added bonus.

But beyond the venue and atmosphere, the real value lay in the insights shared and the reaffirmation of the critical role HSE professionals play every single day.

The Evolving Role of HSE Professionals

Events like this highlight the ongoing importance of HSE leaders in protecting not only workers, but also their families and communities.

The role continues to evolve — balancing:

• Physical safety
• Mental health and wellbeing
• Regulatory compliance
• Commercial outcomes

HSE professionals are increasingly required to influence business leaders, collaborate across departments, and embed safety into organisational culture — all while adapting to rapid technological change.

Key Takeaways from the Symposium

1. Increasing Regulation Around AI and Digital Technology

SafeWork NSW is strengthening its regulatory focus on digital technologies, particularly AI and algorithm-driven systems.

As technology becomes more embedded in operations, businesses must ensure it supports — rather than compromises — workplace safety.

2. Stronger Focus on High-Risk Industries

There is a continued emphasis on improving safety standards across:

• Tunnelling and mining
• Working at heights
• Exposure to crystalline silica

Regulators are actively engaging with industries to ensure robust and evolving safety frameworks.

3. Significant Investment in Mental Health

An initial $127 million investment has been pledged to support mental health and wellbeing initiatives, with a strong focus on psychosocial safety.

This reflects a clear shift towards recognising mental health as a core component of workplace safety.

4. The Reality of Workplace Impact

Over the past 20 years, 4,907 fatalities have occurred in NSW alone — a stark reminder of the human cost behind safety failures.

This extends beyond the workplace, impacting families and communities long after incidents occur.

5. Greater Support for Affected Workers and Families

There is a growing directive to ensure:

• Ongoing financial support
• Long-term care for affected families
• Compassionate, human-centred responses

Support is no longer viewed as a one-off obligation, but a long-term responsibility.

6. Empowering HSE Leaders

A consistent message throughout the symposium: HSE professionals must be empowered to speak up without risk.

For organisations, this means:

• Giving HSE leaders a seat at the table
• Supporting decision-making authority
• Recognising that strong safety leadership drives long-term cost savings

7. Underreporting Remains a Challenge

Fear continues to drive 35% of underreporting in workplaces.

Addressing this requires:

• Psychological safety
• Transparent reporting systems
• Trust between leadership and workforce

8. Increased Site Engagement

New SafeWork NSW expectations will require a 20% increase in site visits by HSE professionals.

This reinforces the importance of visibility, connection, and proactive engagement with workers on the ground.

9. The Rise of Psychosocial Risk

SafeWork NSW predicts an additional 8,000 psychosocial injury claims over the next five years.

In response, organisations must:

• Integrate HR and HSE functions
• Strengthen psychosocial risk management
• Develop more holistic safety frameworks

10. Futureproofing Workers Compensation

With rising claims and evolving risks, businesses are encouraged to:

• Review current workers compensation strategies
• Plan proactively for future demand
• Ensure systems are fit for purpose

11. Technology as an Enabler — Not a Replacement

Emerging HSE technologies and AI-driven tools are being positioned as support mechanisms, helping to:

• Improve reporting
• Enhance monitoring
• Drive better decision-making

However, human leadership and judgement remain critical.

12. Influencing Through Empathy

One of the more powerful themes was the importance of empathy mapping in influencing stakeholders.

Understanding the perspectives of workers, leaders, and regulators enables more effective communication — and ultimately, better safety outcomes.

Final Thoughts

The 2026 AIHS NSW Safety Symposium reinforced a clear message: The future of HSE lies at the intersection of people, technology, and leadership.

As regulations evolve and new risks emerge, organisations that prioritise:

• Empowered safety leadership
• Psychosocial wellbeing
• Proactive compliance
• Technological integration

…will be best positioned to protect their workforce and drive sustainable success.

At Zenergy, we remain committed to supporting businesses and professionals navigating this changing landscape — connecting the right people, insights, and solutions to build safer, stronger workplaces.