The Coroners (Mining and Resources Coroner) Amendment Bill was passed by the Queensland Parliament on March 15, 2024, but the Mining and Energy Union (MEU) claims it fails to adequately address critical safety issues within the mining sector. The MEU’s Queensland President, Mitch Hughes, criticized the legislation for being reactive and too limited in scope, suggesting it does not tackle the underlying causes of preventable deaths.
Hughes pointed out that the newly appointed Mining and Resources Coroner should have the authority to investigate deaths related to mining, even when they occur off-site. This includes incidents such as fatal car accidents that may happen after extended shifts. He emphasized the need for automatic investigations into suicides occurring in mining camps or other locations, rather than leaving these decisions to the Coroner’s discretion.
“A coal mine worker’s safety doesn’t stop at the gate. Where work is a possible factor, the death should be investigated,” Hughes stated. He underscored the importance of addressing major issues like suicide and vehicle accidents, which he believes cannot be overlooked in the mining industry.
Despite the establishment of the Mining and Resources Coroner, Hughes argued that this measure alone does not remedy the broader safety challenges facing the sector. He expressed concern that the current approach would not lead to the necessary cultural and structural reforms.
“We need stronger enforcement of existing safety laws, better fatigue management, and systems that protect workers before tragedy strikes,” Hughes noted. He urged that safety reforms should focus on the needs of workers and be proactive, rather than merely reactive measures following incidents.
In light of these concerns, the MEU is advocating for the Queensland government to invest in preventative safety measures. These recommendations include enhanced training programs, improved health and safety protocols, and better support systems for workers in high-stress environments.
The union’s call for reform highlights a significant gap in the current legislation, as they believe the safety of mineworkers must be prioritized through comprehensive strategies rather than relying solely on investigations after tragedies occur. The MEU is determined to ensure that the voices of workers are heard and that their safety is regarded as a fundamental priority in the mining industry.
