Our advocacy programme
Driving positive change in the industry
Site Safe is committed to driving positive change in health and safety across New Zealand’s construction sector. Through advocacy, we help shape safer workplaces, influence policy, and support the wellbeing of every worker.
Our advocacy approach
Construction remains one of New Zealand’s highest-risk sectors, and advocacy is vital to reducing harm and improving mental health.
At Site Safe, we speak up about the real issues facing workers and businesses, working with government, industry, and our members to shape safer practices.
Our advocacy helps build a culture where people feel safe, supported, and confident to speak up.
Here’s why our advocacy work matters:
Reducing harm
We advocate for safer systems and practices that help prevent injuries and fatalities
Empowering industry voices
We provide a platform for workers and businesses to be heard and involved in shaping change.
Influencing policy
We contribute to the development of legislation and standards that reflect the realities of the industry.
Raising awareness
We shine a light on key health and safety challenges through campaigns, research, and storytelling.
Supporting mental health
We promote initiatives that address stress, fatigue, and wellbeing in the workplace.
We take a proactive, evidence-based approach to advocacy, using a range of methods to ensure health and safety remains a priority at every level:
Industry engagement
We collaborate with members, Safety Liaison Groups, and stakeholders to understand industry challenges and represent their views.
Policy submissions
We regularly contribute to government consultations, providing feedback on proposed changes to health and safety regulations and training standards.
Research and insights
We invest in research to identify emerging risks, understand industry trends, and support evidence-based decision-making.
Campaigns and communication
We raise awareness through targeted campaigns, media engagement, and educational resources that promote safer practices and wellbeing.
Collaboration and partnerships
We partner with organisations like Registered Master Builders, WorkSafe, and mental health and wellbeing providers to amplify our impact and align efforts across the sector.
Recent advocacy initiatives
We contribute to the development of health and safety legislation and standards by engaging with government agencies, submitting feedback, and representing industry perspectives.
Speaking up for members on changes to health and safety legislation
In partnership with Registered Master Builders, Site Safe advocated for clarity and consistency in health and safety regulation. Together, we called for better communication and practical guidance to help businesses meet their obligations without unnecessary complexity.
Review of WorkSafe publications
We recently supported WorkSafe New Zealand (WorkSafe) with efforts to review and triage hundreds of publications from WorkSafe, as well as older ones published by the Department of Labour. This review allowed WorkSafe to ensure that they could prioritise updating their guidance where relevant and retire guidance that was no longer current, ensuring businesses have the latest information on health and safety matters.
Feedback on short course training changes
We recently provided formal feedback on proposed changes to short course training requirements. Our submission highlighted the importance of maintaining high standards while ensuring accessibility and relevance for learners across the sector.
We advocate for a holistic approach to safety that includes mental health and wellbeing. This means supporting initiatives that address stress, fatigue, and psychological wellbeing on site.
We were advocacy supporters for MATES in Construction 2025 industry wellbeing survey, which was released in September 2025
We’ve partnered with Massey University to explore stress and wellbeing in construction, including studies on suicide risk, gender-based stressors, and the future of workplace safety. You can explore our full research library here.
Through campaigns, resources, and events, we raise awareness of critical health and safety issues and promote best practice across the sector.
As one of New Zealand’s largest providers of health and safety training for the construction industry, we also responded (alongside the Vertical Construction Leader’s Group) to proposed changes from Waihanga Ara Rau on Short Course Training.
Site Safe actively supports platforms where industry professionals can come together to share insights, raise concerns, and collaborate on solutions to health and safety challenges.
Industry partnerships
We maintain strong relationships with key industry bodies, including Registered Master Builders New Zealand and the Vertical Construction Leaders Group.
View our Trade Associations hub
Safety Liaison Groups (SLGs)
We proudly support Safety Liaison Groups across New Zealand — regional networks that bring together contractors, clients, consultants, and regulators to share knowledge and promote safer work
Continued Professional Development (CPD) Forums
Our CPD forums provide a space for graduates of the Health and Safety in Construction certificate programme to stay up to date with health and safety changes within the construction industry.