North Queensland barrister, Wayne Pennell, has been appointed Queensland’s new Mining and Resources Coroner.
As the Mining Coroner, Mr Pennell will investigate fatalities and make recommendations to enhance safety for all workers.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Deb Frecklington said the Coroner would not only investigate fatalities but also conduct inquests and make recommendations with the full authority and power of a Coroners Court.
“The Crisafulli Government is delivering on its promise to put victims first and the Mining Coroner will ensure, if there is a tragic accident, that families can get the answers they deserve about what went wrong,” the Attorney-General said.
“Labor might say they stand up for workers, but their actions towards the hard-working men and women in the mining resources sector shows us the disregard they had for preventing incidents on site.
“This will be an expansive role and Mr Pennell, who has experience in policing, law and as a member of various tribunals, is very well qualified to assume this important position.
“It is also another vital boost to our courts as we deliver on our promise of faster access to justice for victims.
“When not acting in the capacity of Mining Coroner, Mr Pennell will be available to undertake other coronial duties, which will help to ease pressure on the justice system.”
Mr Pennell will be based in Mackay after spending the first 12 months of his tenure in Brisbane.
Amendments to the Coroners Act 2003 are being prepared to establish the Mining and Resources Coroner role. Mr Pennell will conduct general coronial duties prior to legislation being introduced.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Dale Last said establishing the Mining and Resources Coroner position sent a clear message about accountability for safety.
“This is about restoring a vital layer of accountability that Labor walked away from. The reintroduction of the Mining and Resources Coroner sends a clear message that worker safety comes first in Queensland,” Minister Last said.
“Queenslanders rely on a strong and safe resource sector, but safety continues to be one of the top issues raised with me as I travel around the State.
“The Coroner will be empowered to conduct full and fair investigations with the goal of delivering genuine findings and recommendations that boost safety for every resource worker in Queensland.
“The Crisafulli Government is restoring trust in the system that was trashed by the former Labor Government, which left the critical position of Resources Safety and Health Commissioner vacant for nearly a year.
“Queensland’s resources sector has no future without its workforce, and we owe it to mining families that the system doesn’t look away when things go wrong,” he said.
