Stakeholders involved in Queensland’s resources industry are being encouraged to contribute to a review of the state’s resources safety and health regulatory model, with the consultation process now open.

The review, led by University of Queensland professor Susan Johnston, will evaluate the performance and effectiveness of Queensland’s current regulatory bodies including Resources Safety and Health Queensland, the Commissioner for Resources Safety and Health, and advisory committees such as the Mining Safety and Health Advisory Committee (MSHAC) and the Coal Mining Safety and Health Advisory Committee (CMSHAC).

When completed, the review will determine whether the current model is successfully promoting safety and health in the resources sector, and will explore whether improvements or alternative frameworks could deliver better outcomes.

A central part of the review process will involve consultation with key players in the industry.

Stakeholders can participate by providing their thoughts in writing prior to August 15 to susan.johnston@uq.edu.au, or request an interview with a member of the review team by sending an email on GeoPolOED@resources.qld.gov.au.

Interviews can be held either in person or via video conference, with flexible arrangements available to suit stakeholders’ preferences. Where appropriate, consultations can also be conducted on a confidential basis.

Johnston and her team are expected to deliver an initial report to the Natural Resources and Mines Minister Dale Last by September 15.

Last said the review was a critical step in strengthening the regulatory framework.

“Queensland’s resource workers deserve a safety system that is strong, independent and accountable,” he said.

“The review will provide the clear-eyed assessment needed to strengthen our regulatory model so that it delivers for workers, the industry and mining families.”