The Queensland Parliament has passed the Coroners (Mining and Resources Coroner) Amendment Bill, aimed at establishing a dedicated role for investigating fatalities in the mining and resources sector. However, the Mining and Energy Union (MEU) has raised concerns that the legislation fails to effectively address the root causes of preventable deaths among workers.
According to Mitch Hughes, President of the MEU Queensland, the newly created Mining and Resources Coroner position is fundamentally reactive and limited in scope. Hughes emphasizes that the Coroner should have the authority to investigate not only on-site fatalities but also incidents that occur off-site, particularly those linked to work-related factors. This includes fatal vehicle accidents occurring after long shifts and the suicides of mineworkers, which should be subject to automatic investigation rather than at the Coroner’s discretion.
“A coal mine worker’s safety doesn’t stop at the gate,” Hughes stated. “Where work is a possible factor, the death should be investigated.” He highlighted that mining companies often argue against the work-related nature of fatalities, which can lead to critical issues being overlooked. Hughes pointed out that both suicide and vehicle accidents represent significant challenges that the industry can no longer afford to ignore.
Critically, Hughes argues that the establishment of the Mining and Resources Coroner does not adequately address the broad spectrum of safety challenges faced in the mining sector. He insists on the need for stronger enforcement of existing safety laws, improved fatigue management practices, and systems that proactively protect workers before tragedies occur.
“We don’t believe this role will drive the cultural and structural reform our industry desperately needs,” he asserted, emphasizing that safety reforms should be worker-focused and forward-looking. “It’s not just about administrative clean-up after a tragedy; it’s about preventing them in the first place.”
In light of these concerns, the MEU is urging the Queensland government to shift its focus toward preventive measures. These include increased investment in health and safety initiatives aimed at addressing the underlying issues contributing to fatalities in the mining industry.
The passage of the Coroners (Mining and Resources Coroner) Amendment Bill on March 15, 2024, marks a new chapter in Queensland’s approach to mining safety. However, without substantial improvements in preventive strategies and a holistic commitment to worker safety, industry leaders like Hughes warn that the legislation may fall short of its intended goals.
