Head Of Workplace Relations & Compliance

Exciting opportunity to shape future practices in this newly created role Join a collaborative team and deliver great employee experiences Permanent role based in Melbourne – hybrid working arrangement We're REA REA Group is not your average digital business. From humble beginnings in a garage in Melbourne's east in 1995, we have grown into a leading global digital business, specialising in property.
With bold and ambitious goals, we are changing the way the world experiences property. No matter where you're at on your property journey, we're here to help with every step - whether that's finding or financing your next home.
Our people are the key to our success. At the heart of everything we do, is a thriving culture centred around high performance and care. We are purpose driven and collaborative, which drives innovation and our ability to make a real impact.
Where the team fits in The role sits within our Reward and People Operations team, a Centre of Expertise (COE) group within REA Group's People and Culture team. The role is predominantly focused on our Australian business; however, to support REA's growth ambitions, there may be further acquisitions and integrations and advice required for international locations.
What the role is all about The Head of Workplace Relations and Compliance is responsible for leading and overseeing all aspects of workplace relations, employee governance, and organisational compliance with people and culture practices. This role is crucial in fostering a positive and productive work environment while ensuring adherence to legal and ethical standards. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of employment law, organisational governance, compliance training, and contemporary HR practices.
The core objective of the role is to ensure that REA maintains a compliant, safe, and thriving workplace.
Typical activities will include: Develop and implement strategies, policies, and processes to manage employee relations and address workplace issues. Provide guidance and support on complex employee relations matters, including disciplinary actions, grievances, and conflict resolution. Ensure P&C practices are in line with Fair Work requirements and best practices. Oversight of the WHS function and management of the WHS SME. Lead programs of work within the areas of accountability and partner with Wellbeing specialists to develop programs in support of our commitment to a safe and thriving workplace culture. Oversee the development, enforcement, and governance of People and Culture policies and procedures related to workplace relations and governance. Ensure organisational compliance with all relevant employment laws, regulations, and standards. Conduct regular audits and assessments to identify areas for improvement and ensure adherence to best practices. Manage and monitor the People and Culture risk register and partner with the Risk team to mitigate any identified risks. Develop and implement contemporary HR policies, processes, and practices that are easy to understand and implement while supporting increased engagement, performance, and a positive workplace culture. Coach, develop, and mentor the P&C business partnering team in the area of employee and workplace relations. Work with functional subject matter experts to deliver fit-for-purpose employee compliance training at the enterprise and functional level. Prepare and present reports on workplace relations and governance issues to senior management and Committees as required. Thought leadership in the development and improvement of key ER and WHS systems, reporting, and scorecards including ER and WHS management. Lead the workplace relations and compliance activities for any acquisitions, integrations, including working with partners to ensure REA is compliant with local legislation as appropriate. Lead the preparation of materials for executive and board committees and presentations as required. Who we're looking for We're looking for a People and Culture practitioner with direct experience in workplace relations and case management, ideally with knowledge of WHS. We also want someone with a passion for compliance and the ability to communicate this to the business in a brand-aligned, understandable, and meaningful way. We want you to bring some flair and creativity to REA and support our already great culture to be even better.
Ideally the successful candidate would have:
A degree in Human Resources, Employee Relations or Workplace Relations, or Employment Law. Extensive experience (typically 8-10 years) in workplace relations, HR management, or legal compliance, with a track record of leadership and strategic oversight. In-depth knowledge of employment laws, regulations, and best practices. Exceptional problem-solving, conflict resolution, and negotiation skills. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and build relationships across all levels of the organisation. Proven ability to manage complex projects and drive organizational change in the areas of governance and compliance. In-depth understanding of Fair Work obligations and employment case law to provide sound advice and capability uplift for the business. An understanding of the WHS legislative requirements in Australia. Excellent reporting and analytical skills to monitor the efficacy of the function and support board and committee reporting. The REA experience The physical, mental, emotional, and financial health of our people is something we'll never stop caring about. This is a place to learn and grow. We're committed to your development – both professionally and personally. Your experience with us is something we take seriously.
We offer: A hybrid and flexible approach to working. Flexible parental leave offering for primary and secondary carers. Programs to support mental, emotional, financial and physical health & wellbeing. Our Because We Care program offers employees volunteering leave, community grants, matched payroll giving, and our Community Café donates 100% of revenue to charity. Hack Days so you can bring your big ideas to life. Performance recognition programs because hard work should never go unnoticed. Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion We are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe teams with diverse ideas and experiences are more creative, more effective, and fuel disruptive thinking - be it cultural and ethnic backgrounds, gender identity, disability, age, sexual orientation, or any other identity or lived experience. We know diverse teams are critical to maintaining our success and driving new business opportunities. If you've got the skills, dedication, and enthusiasm to learn but don't necessarily meet every single point on the job description, please still get in touch.
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