Mining and quarry industry representatives, the Queensland Government and trade unions have today reached a landmark agreement committing to a safety reset in the Queensland resources sector.

CFMEU Mining and Energy Queensland President Steve Smyth said a number of critical issues were resolved in today’s meeting.

“Importantly, we now have a recognition from both industry and government that the culture around safety must change.

“We have achieved a commitment to tackle reckless behaviour in the workplace, and to put industrial manslaughter laws on the table.

“We also have agreements from all parties to participate in the two independent reviews that are currently underway, and to co-operate with the findings of those reviews.

“Furthermore, we have all agreed to work together to develop a series of safety resets at mining sites around Queensland by the end of August, covering the safety of all mining workers.”

Mr Smyth said while today’s meeting was a breakthrough, there was still much more work to be done.

“Building a stronger safety culture in Queensland mining will take time, leadership and commitment from all sections of the industry.

“We cannot, however, afford to fail.  Too many lives have been lost already.”

Contact: Stewart Prins 0487 119 790