National Safe Work Month 2025: Prioritise Workplace Safety with an Expert Speaker

National Safe Work Month 2025 is a time to stop, reflect and act. Each October, Australian workers and employers are reminded that safety in the workplace is not optional, but essential. This year’s theme, “Safety: every job, every day”, calls on all industries to strengthen their commitment to Workplace Health and Safety.

The key messaging in 2025 is simple: workplace safety is everyone’s responsibility. The most recent data shows that in 2023, 200 Australian workers were fatally injured at work, and more than 139,000 serious workers’ compensation claims were lodged. These statistics speak for themselves. But preventable work incidents cannot be reduced to mere numbers. They represent a real impact on real people, families, and communities.

That’s why National Safe Work Month 2025 is more than just a campaign. It signifies a critical check-in point in which to educate, inspire, and take action. One of the most impactful ways to engage your team is through a workplace safety speaker who brings real-world experience, powerful storytelling, and proven strategies to the stage.

Below, we’ve curated a list of Workplace Health and Safety speakers for National Safe Work Month who will help your organisation lead with care, clarity, and commitment.

Anthony Hart

Founder of Lifeback Tracker, Mental health and workplace wellbeing advocate

Anthony Hart survived a suicide attempt and went on to become a powerful voice for workplace mental health. He possesses first-hand understanding of how stress, fatigue, and emotional strain can impede workplace safety, decision-making, and overall work performance. His keynotes focus on mental health in high-risk environments and ways to spot the signs before it’s too late, making him an ideal speaker for National Safe Work Month events.

Learn more about Anthony Hart

Darren Flanagan

Beaconsfield mine blast expert, High-pressure decision-making

When disaster struck in the Beaconsfield gold mine, Darren Flanagan played a critical role in rescuing trapped miners using explosives. His story is gripping, emotional and deeply relevant to safe leadership, especially in mining, construction and heavy industry. Darren speaks to the vital role of preparation and teamwork in decision-making.

Learn more about Darren Flanagan

Natalee Johnston

First female Australian Navy helicopter pilot, High-stakes safety and resilience

Despite making history in the skies, Natalee Johnston’s message is immensely grounded. She unpacks the fundamentals of safety, risk assessment, and teamwork under pressure, and explores what it takes to lead in complex, high-risk environments. Natalee is a standout speaker for industries where physical and psychological safety are paramount.

 Learn more about Natalee Johnston

Mark Gallagher

Formula 1 executive, Safety innovation and high performance

Formula 1 is all about speed, but for Mark Gallagher, it’s a masterclass in precision and safety. Mark shares insights from decades at the forefront of motorsport, demonstrating how a relentless focus on risk management, innovation and safe workplace culture can save lives. His message is a powerful fit for executive audiences during National Safe Work Month 2025.

Learn more about Mark Gallagher

Theo Venter

Electrocution survivor, Workplace safety advocate

Theo Venter’s near-fatal electrocution changed not only his life, but his mission. Today, he speaks about the importance of safety systems, situational awareness, and responsibility on the job site. His lived experience makes him one of the most relatable and impactful Workplace Health and Safety speakers for high-risk industries.

Learn more about Theo Venter

Helen Fitzroy

Widow turned Workplace Health and Safety advocate, Founder of Mining Families Matters

After losing her husband in a workplace accident, Helen Fitzroy became a passionate advocate for safe communication and workplace culture. Her talks humanise statistics and highlight the ripple effects of complacency. Helen’s message is perfect for reminding teams that safety is personal, and that every precaution matters.

Learn more about Helen Fitzroy

Rachael Robertson

Antarctic expedition leader, Safety and leadership in isolation

Safety is non-negotiable in the harsh, remote conditions of Antarctica. Rachael Robertson led one of the most extreme workplace environments on Earth, managing risk, conflict, and psychological health in total isolation. Her story speaks to leaders and frontline workers alike, emphasising proactive safety planning and mental resilience.

Learn more about Rachael Robertson

Mark ‘Squiz’ Squirrell

UN peacekeeper, adventurer and logistics expert

Mark “Squiz” Squirrell has lived many lives. From delivering aid through war zones, to climbing Mount Everest, Mark has managed risk on a global scale. His talks focus on logistical safety, operational planning and personal accountability, making him a relevant speaker for teams across all Australian industries.

Learn more about Squiz

Brant ‘Bugsy’ North

Oil and gas safety leader, Zero harm advocate

With decades of experience in high-risk workplaces, Bugsy North has a practical, no-nonsense approach to implementing safety culture, reducing incidents, and creating meaningful change for workers. His message is ideal for any teams looking to go beyond compliance and into sustainable, positive safety outcomes.

Learn more about Bugsy North

Narelle Fraser

Former police detective, Trauma, PTSD and psychological safety

As a former homicide and sex crimes detective, Narelle Fraser has been faced with unimaginable trauma. Today, she speaks openly and honestly about workplace mental health, PTSD, and safety in high-pressure workplaces, particularly in emergency services, security, and healthcare sectors. Narelle’s story encourages organisations to consider mental health and psychological safety alongside physical protection.

 Learn more about Narelle Fraser

 

Book a Safety Speaker for National Safe Work Month 2025

Whether you’re planning a safety awareness day, a leadership training session, or an all-staff event, the right Workplace Health and Safety speaker can help drive your message home. The speakers above have common offerings:  lived experience, industry knowledge, and the ability to motivate meaningful change in your organisation.