Black Lung compensation to be reviewed by QRC

Following a long campaign by Black Lung disease victims in the state of Queensland, the CFMEU has said that the Queensland Resources Council has now recognised the need to review the  compensation policy for sufferers of coal workers’ pneumoconiosis (CWP).

However, while the CFMEU welcomes the sentiment of the announcement, it has said that a mere review of the current compensation is not sufficient to address the problem.

According to Andrew Vickers, CFMEU Mining and Energy Division, it is essential to establish a fund separate to the workers compensation scheme to deal exclusively with coal workers’ pneumoconiosis (CWP), or Black Lung. He also believes that the fund should be paid for by mining companies.

“A 10-cent levy per tonne of coal mined is the minimum they can do to help rectify the pain and suffering they have caused,” said Vickers.

“This is not the responsibility of the taxpayers of Queensland — mining companies cannot be let off the hook.

“Not only does the diagnosis impose a huge blow of uncertainty for your future, it also brings with it a tremendous loss of income to you and your family — impacting your livelihood, mental and physical health. It is not fair and the system needs to better support these victims.”

Despite this, the pending review is an important step that will show workers, victims and their families that their fight has brought about change.

“It is encouraging to see that the QRC has looked at the evidence objectively and departed from their previous position towards advocating for an industry-funded solution,” said Vickers.