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Highlights
Queensland initiates review of RSHQ’s regulatory model
University of Queensland professor to lead safety framework evaluation
Interim leadership and new appointments accompany government response
The Queensland Government has launched a wide-ranging review into the regulatory structure of Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ), marking a pivotal development for the mining and energy sector, which includes several companies listed on the All Ordinaries index. The review reflects increasing scrutiny over workplace safety and the effectiveness of oversight within the state’s extractive industries.
RSHQ, established to oversee safety protocols across mining, petroleum, gas, and explosives sectors, will be the focal point of this evaluation. The state aims to re-examine the authority’s capacity to enforce safety and health outcomes in one of the nation’s most critical industries.
Independent Leadership to Guide Structural Assessment
The government has appointed Professor Susan Johnston of the University of Queensland to lead the review. The terms of reference include an assessment of the current structure, as well as exploration of alternative models that may better ensure safety standards across Queensland’s resources workforce.
Professor Johnston is tasked with delivering a final report by the latter half of the coming year. The initiative arrives amidst broader calls for improved oversight following past incidents in the state’s mines and energy sites.
Government Seeks Stronger Safeguards for Resources Workforce
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Dale Last, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing the safety model. Emphasising responsiveness and effectiveness, he noted that the goal is to create a respected system tailored to the needs of Queensland’s resource sector personnel.
In recent months, multiple fatal accidents globally—including in South Africa, Pakistan, and the United States—have reignited debate over the adequacy of existing safety frameworks. Within Australia, recent figures show that workplace incidents continue to affect the mining industry, despite long-term efforts to reduce them.
Leadership Shifts Accompany Review Efforts
The state has moved to reinforce RSHQ’s leadership during the review period. In April, Ken Singer was appointed interim Commissioner, addressing a prolonged vacancy that persisted under the former administration. His role includes managing operational oversight while the review unfolds.
In parallel, barrister Wayne Pennell was named Queensland’s new Mining and Resources Coroner. His responsibilities will cover inquests and legal matters tied to mining-related fatalities and incidents.
These structural and personnel changes align with the government’s broader plan to enhance trust and accountability within the regulatory environment, particularly as safety concerns remain prominent across Queensland’s mining regions.
