Harold Downes – Partner Kara Reynolds – Senior Associate, Herbert Smith Freehills

ABSTRACT

How to Share Opportunities Together when crossing the border between ‘onsite activities’ and ‘offsite activities’ to achieve a better safety outcome. How to consult, cooperate and coordinate effectively for a better safety outcome through the use of contractors who work under both the CMSH Act and WHS act, such as plant repair workshops located in Mackay or plant designers located in Europe.

Emma Gruschka – Senior Associate Laura Regan – Consultant, Sparke Helmore Lawyers

ABSTRACT

Labour hire plays a significant role in the mining industry, as businesses seek a flexible workforce that can respond to fluctuating labour demand, address skills shortages and boost productivity. However, as the demand for labour-hire has continued to grow, so too has the number of incidents exposing the exploitation and mistreatment of workers. A 2016 report by the Finance and Administration Committee found alarming evidence of a number of illegal practices, including the undercutting of employment conditions. In response to these findings, and to ensure worker health and safety, the Queensland Parliament passed the Labour Hire Licensing Act 2017 (Qld) (Act) in September 2017. The Act is set to impose significant obligations on providers, and those who engage providers, of labour hire services. Given the substantial penalties for contraventions, including possible imprisonment, it is crucial that individuals covered by the Act understand their new obligations. This presentation is a must for those wanting to know the ins and outs of the new mandatory licensing scheme, including: • the operation of the ‘fit and proper person test’; • reporting obligations; and • powers of inspector to enter and search premises. Attendees will also be provided with the practical steps they should take to ensure compliance.

Belinda Martin – SSE, Sibelco Australia Pty Ltd

ABSTRACT

The fact is that most mines do not close when their mineral resources are exhausted but close prematurely due to a range of reasons including geotechnical, economic, regulatory and other pressures. Mining companies can develop and implement a mine closure plan that will highlight risks and set out a work breakdown structure to get from point A to point B, but keeping your employees focused on safety, motivated and retained brings many challenges. Strong leadership, a simple safety management system, ‘value add’ processes and ensuring employees have access to the right tools and equipment are extremely important but it is the workforce culture that drive safety and business outcomes. This paper will outline the challenges an impending 2019 mine closure brings and will explain the impacts on the workforce and the steps my team and I are taking to keep our workers safe up until the day we raise the ladder for the final time.