The Liberal Government has now considered an audit into mine safety by Professor Michael Quinlan and is addressing the findings.
This week’s budget will include additional funding for the Office of the Chief Inspector of Mines, increasing inspectorate numbers from five to six, as recommended.
The new structure reflects recent changes in the sector and provides the mines inspectorate with sufficient resources to ensure the safety of Tasmanian mine workers.
In line with the recommendations, the Government has also instructed WorkSafe Tasmania to establish a Mine Safety Steering Committee to review our mine safety laws.
This review will consider the issues raised in the recent audit, best practice mine safety laws in other jurisdictions and coronial reports of previous mine fatalities in Tasmania.
This committee will consist of representatives from Government, industry, unions and an independent mining expert and is tasked with making key recommendations for improving Tasmania’s mine safety laws.
The Steering Committee is expected to hold its first meeting next month with an initial report to be provided by the end of the year.
The mining sector is vital to the Tasmanian economy and the Liberal Government is committed to ensuring the safety of Tasmanian mine workers.
Peter Gutwein, Treasurer
