Rosanna Higgins
Canberra
Summary
Experienced HR leader with a strong background in employee relations, workforce strategy, and compliance across the community, disability, and not-for-profit sectors. Passionate about fostering inclusive, values-driven workplaces that empower employees and enhance service delivery for vulnerable communities.
Expert in industrial relations, workforce planning, employee engagement, and WHS, with a proven track record in leading organisational change, mentoring leaders, and ensuring compliance with SCHADS and other Modern Awards, Fair Work Act, and sector regulations. Skilled in building resilient workforces, developing HR policies, and driving cultural transformation to support sustainable service delivery.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Director
Department of Employment and Workplace Relations
10.2024 - 02.2025
- Supported workplace relations and compliance, ensuring adherence to employment law and best practice HR policies
HR Advisor
OzHelp Foundation – Supporting Mental Health in High-Risk, Hard-to-Reach Industries
09.2023 - 08.2024
- Provided HR guidance and workforce support during organisational transitions, restructures, and redundancies
- Applied trauma-informed HR practices to enhance staff well-being and psychological safety
- Developed and implemented employee engagement and retention strategies tailored to high-risk sectors
HR Manager
Renrow Steel Pty Ltd
03.2021 - 08.2024
- Managed end-to-end HR functions, including recruitment, workforce planning, and compliance
- Led payroll and HRIS system improvements, increasing efficiency and accuracy
- Processed working visas for employees, ensuring legal compliance and workforce continuity
- Implemented HR digital transformation to enhance record management and operational efficiency
- Parental Leave 2022 – 2024
Compliance Officer (Contracted)
Department of Education, Skills and Employment
01.2021 - 03.2021
- Ensured compliance with apprenticeship wage incentive programs, conducting quality control and audit processes
Compliance Support Manager – People & Culture
Community Services #1
01.2015 - 01.2021
- Provided industrial relations and HR compliance guidance, representing the organisation in Fair Work Commission matters
- Conducted workplace investigations, including bullying, misconduct, and reportable conduct cases
- Managed workers' compensation claims and return-to-work processes, supporting both employees and management
- Led workforce restructures and workforce design initiatives to enhance service delivery
- Embedded diversity, equity, and WHS principles into organisational HR policies and practice
Project Officer (Contracted)
National Health and Medical Research Council
01.2015 - 12.2015
- Coordinated federal funding initiatives and supported expert panel assessments
Office & HR Manager
Canberra Rape Crisis Centre Inc.
01.2010 - 01.2015
- Managed HR, payroll, and workforce planning in a trauma-informed, high-impact service environment
- Developed and implemented training programs and policies to support frontline staff well-being and service delivery
- Designed and implemented client-centered case management systems to improve support services
- Secured funding and negotiated service contracts to maintain crisis support programs
Various Roles – Youth, Health & Crisis Support
Northern Territory Government – Department of Health and Families
01.2007 - 01.2009
- Provided child protection and family crisis intervention services
- Supported youth and sexual health programs, including out-of-home care coordination
Education
Advanced Diploma HR Management -
Canberra Institute of Tech
Canberra, ACTRecord Keeping CertIV -
Australian College of Commerce And Management
Community Services CertIV -
Canberra Institute of Tech
Canberra, ACTSkills
- HR Leadership & Workforce Planning
- Employee Relations & Case Management
- Compliance & Award Interpretation (SCHADS, Modern Awards, Fair Work Act)
- Industrial Relations & Fair Work Representation
- Workforce Attraction, Retention & Talent Development
- Work Health & Safety (WHS) & Risk Management
- Change Management & Organisational Development
- Stakeholder Engagement & Leadership Coaching
Timeline
Assistant Director
Department of Employment and Workplace Relations
10.2024 - 02.2025
HR Advisor
OzHelp Foundation – Supporting Mental Health in High-Risk, Hard-to-Reach Industries
09.2023 - 08.2024
HR Manager
Renrow Steel Pty Ltd
03.2021 - 08.2024
Compliance Officer (Contracted)
Department of Education, Skills and Employment
01.2021 - 03.2021
Compliance Support Manager – People & Culture
Community Services #1
01.2015 - 01.2021
Project Officer (Contracted)
National Health and Medical Research Council
01.2015 - 12.2015
Office & HR Manager
Canberra Rape Crisis Centre Inc.
01.2010 - 01.2015
Various Roles – Youth, Health & Crisis Support
Northern Territory Government – Department of Health and Families
01.2007 - 01.2009
Advanced Diploma HR Management -
Canberra Institute of Tech
Record Keeping CertIV -
Australian College of Commerce And Management
Community Services CertIV -
Canberra Institute of Tech
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