Queensland appoints Mining and Resources Coroner

The Queensland Government has appointed Wayne Pennell Mining and Resources Coroner, to investigate fatalities and make recommendations with the full authority and power of a Coroners Court. The new role is in line with a Crisafulli government election commitment to restore a resources sector justice service, ensuring inquests are completed in a timely manner.

“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,” Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Deb Frecklington said.

“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,” Frecklington added.

Amendments to the Coroners Act 2003 are being prepared to establish the Mining and Resources Coroner role, the government said, with the Coroner to conduct all coronial investigations into fatalities on the state’s gas, mine, petroleum and quarry sites.

“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,” Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said.

“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,” Last added.

After spending the first 12 months of his tenure in Brisbane, Pennell will be based in Mackay, conducting general coronial duties prior to legislation being introduced.

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