Regulatory Officers

About The Opportunity

At ONRSR, we're more than regulators. As a Regulatory Officer (Rail Safety Officer), you'll play a key role in shaping the future of safety for Australia's rail networks. Our vision is simple: Safe railways for all Australians. We're looking for curious minds and proactive thinkers to help us deliver on that vision - through risk-based regulation and by sharing valuable insights that improve safety across the industry.

As a Regulatory Officer, you'll be located at our Sydney office while also spending time in the field, working directly with rail operators and safety workers. You will apply your analytical thinking, regulatory expertise, and strong interpersonal skills to assess accreditation applications, monitor safety performance, and respond to emerging risks.

If you are passionate about safe railways this role might be just what you are looking for and will include a structured supportive training program, with a balance of office-based and field work within active rail environments.  Periodic travel to both regional and metropolitan locations will be required, along with occasional work outside of normal hours.

In this role, you will:

• Influence how rail safety evolves across the country
• Promote safe practices and build safety awareness among rail operators
• Use data and insights to strengthen our risk-based regulatory approach
• Foster a culture where our people are valued, skilled, and engaged
• Build strong, collaborative relationships with key stakeholders
• Help position ONRSR as a modern, future-focused safety regulator

Why ONRSR?

• Join a culture that values integrity, innovation, and inclusion
• Being part of a team that's passionate about making a national impact
• Work in a role that blends independence with collaboration and continuous learning
• Make meaningful connections with professionals across the rail and safety sectors

Your Impact as a Rail Safety Officer

As an appointed Rail Safety Officer, you'll apply your curiosity, critical thinking, and eagerness to learn new skills. Following our policies and procedures, you'll play a vital role in implementing proactive, risk-based regulation.

Your Key Responsibilities:

• Conducting a variety of regulatory tasks, such as site visits, incident responses, inspections, audits, education sessions, and enquiries.
• Supporting the assessment of applications for rail accreditation and registration.
• Preparing high-quality written reports on regulatory activities, including recommendations to senior leadership.
• Assisting in the delivery of technical advice related to the application of the Rail Safety National Law.
• Monitoring operator performance using regulatory intelligence to identify emerging risks and support safety initiatives.
• Performing Duty Officer responsibilities on a rostered basis taking calls about rail incidents and providing initial responses.

About you – your impact and contribution

Whether you're an experienced rail professional, have a background in safety or regulation, or are ready to build a career in safety oversight we want to hear from you. At ONRSR, we value people from diverse professional backgrounds who bring curiosity, motivation, and a strong commitment to public safety.

We're looking for self-starters with a broad skill set, including those with experience in rail or other high-risk transport sectors. If you're proactive, detail oriented, and thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment you'll feel right at home in our team.

To succeed in this role, you will:

• Be motivated to apply or quickly learn principles of safety management systems, risk management, auditing, and the Rail Safety National Law.
• Communicate clearly and professionally, both in writing and in conversation.
• Think critically, ask the right questions, and confidently identify and solve safety issues.
• Be a team player with a flexible, solution-focused mindset.
• Use digital tools and systems effectively in your day-to-day work.
• Reflect on your performance and embrace continuous learning and improvement.
• Contribute to a safe, supportive, and inclusive team culture.
• We're building a forward-thinking regulatory team, and your contribution will directly influence the safety of rail operations across Australia.

About Us and Our Culture

The Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR) is Australia's independent authority dedicated to keeping railways safe nationwide. We champion safe rail operations by enforcing compliance with the Rail Safety National Law and driving continuous improvements in rail safety.

At ONRSR we work together to deliver exceptional outcomes for Rail Safety for all Australians. Our colleagues have an impact far beyond work, and you will be part of a team that is contributing to enhancing safety outcomes.

• We invest in building the capability of our people through customised learning and development programs and by growing your curiosity and experience.
• Employee Assistance Program and Peer Support Network.
• Mentoring for your own development and the opportunity to mentor others.
• Extra 3 days leave with Christmas closedown for all colleagues
• Salary packaging of car, laptop, or tablet.

We support healthy work life balance, encourage ongoing learning and growth, and offer flexible work options to help our people succeed both professionally and personally. Whether you're building new skills or deepening your expertise, you'll find a team environment that's focused on connection, contribution, and continuous improvement. Further details on the benefits of working at ONRSR can be found at

How We Support You

At ONRSR, your development is our priority. We offer a 12-month structured training and development program designed to set you up for success in your role and beyond.

You'll work alongside experienced specialist, be monitored by respected leaders, and gain hands-on experience through site visits, audit inspections and investigations. You'll also deepen your knowledge of rail safety accreditation and safety management systems all while contributing to a safer future for all Australians.

• The chance to be part of an innovative, forward thinking national team.
• A supportive and dynamic work environment that values contribution.
• A strong focus on work-life balance and staff wellbeing.
• Ongoing professional development aligned with your career goals and our learning plan.

Your Application Process

We're excited to learn more about you To Apply, please submit your resume along with a cover letter outlining why you are interested in the role and how your experience aligns with what we are looking for.

As part of the recruitment and selection process, shortlisted candidates will be required to undertake a national criminal history check. Please note that the outcome of this check will be considered in context and does not automatically disqualify applicants from progressing.

Enquiries to: Nadine Gewargis - Manager, Operations

Salary: $110,717 - $137,687 p.a. + 12% super

Applications close: Sunday, 28 September pm)

At ONRSR, we're committed to building a diverse, inclusive and respectful workplace where everyone feels valued. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including those of diverse gender identities, sexual orientations, cultures, religions, ages, abilities and neurodiversity.

If there's anything we can do to make the recruitment process more accessible or comfortable for you, please let us know – we're here to support you.

We also commit to responding to every applicant.

NOTE:

• You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident or hold a valid work permit or visa, as we are unable to provide sponsorship.
• Applications are sought from direct candidates only. No agencies please.

• Application closing dates are at the discretion of ONRSR and may change without notice.

• Position Description - Rail Safety Officer

• Position Description - Senior Rail Safety Officer