The Mining and Energy Union (MEU) says the Queensland Government’s proposed changes to Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) will weaken, not strengthen, the independence of the state’s mine safety watchdog.
Under legislation introduced today, the Government transfers the functions of the independent statutory Commissioner for Resources Safety and Health to a new Governing Board established by the Minister.
MEU Queensland President Mitch Hughes said removing the Commissioner — a role the Government’s own independent review recommended retaining — was a backward step.
“We are deeply concerned that the proposed reforms allow the Minister to establish a Governing Board that he can remove people from without providing a reason.
“These changes are not about improving transparency or strengthening safety outcomes. Instead, they risk placing too much authority in the hands of the Minister over a body intended to operate independently of political influence.
“When the review was first released, we said we would support any genuine effort to strengthen mine safety. Mineworkers and their families deserve a regulatory system focused on preventing harm and ensuring accountability when things go wrong. However, we also warned that suggestions the regulator should scale back its focus on prosecutions were deeply concerning.
“We remain committed to working with all stakeholders to strengthen safety outcomes across the mining industry. But we oppose any moves that risk politicising mine safety or weakening the independence of the regulator by placing more control in the hands of the Minister.”
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