New independent Work Health and Safety Prosecutor appointed

The Queensland Government has appointed Mr Simon Nicholson as the independent Work Health and Safety (WHS) Prosecutor for the next five years.

Mr Nicholson boasts a long and distinguished legal career, particularly with Tasmania’s Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. His time at the ODPP spans some 14 years and he’s successfully litigated matters before magistrates, judges and in the appellate jurisdiction.

The independent WHS Prosecutor position is a niche role, specialising in industrial law and workplace matters. However, Mr Nicolson has a proven track record in litigation of matters at first instance before magistrates, and before judges and juries, and in the appellate jurisdiction. He is also well equipped to provide timely, accurate, and critical advice to government based on a comprehensive knowledge of criminal, coronial and regulatory law.

With a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Tasmania, Simon Nicholson was admitted to the Supreme Court of Tasmania in 2004 and the High Court of Australia two years later.

During a rigorous selection process for the prestigious role as Queensland’s independent WHS prosecutor, Mr Nicholson demonstrated a depth of understanding about complex decisions on whether to commence prosecutions. His work as a lecturer at the University of Tasmania and a presenter and trainer on work health and safety litigation, legislation, and duties of senior executives were also seen as key elements by the independent selection panel.

Tribute is also paid to the previous Work Health and Safety Prosecutor Aaron Guilfoyle and those who acted in the role, Ms Jodie Wooldridge QC and Mr David Gore, until Mr Nicholson’s appointment.

More information

More information is available at Office of the Work Health and Safety Prosecutor website.