The Western Australian Government has announced an expansion of the Mining Industry Advisory Committee in a bid to promote greater representation from the sector.

 

“The restructure means MIAC will now have greater representation from the Chamber of Minerals and Energy; Association of Mining and Exploration Companies; and Unions WA, as well as four independent health and safety specialists,” State Mines and Petroleum Minister Norman Moore.

 

“Given the WA mining industry generated $83billion in sales during 2011 and currently employs around 90,000 people, this committee’s work is crucial.”


The newly appointed expert members are Robert Allan, Christopher Davis, Peta Libby and Robert Mincham.


Department of Mines and Petroleum Resources Safety executive director Simon Ridge will replace his predecessor Malcolm Russell as committee chairperson.


The move was prompted by the Bob Hirte Review in late 2011, which recommended the committee increase industry consultation.


The Minister said health and safety in WA’s mining sector continued to be the State Government’s main priority.


“MIAC has an important role to advise the State Government on matters relating to occupational safety and health in the mining industry, so the more experts we have in one room, the better,” he said.


The committee provides advice on health and safety laws to the Minister for Mines and Petroleum, the Minister for Commerce and the Commission for Occupational Safety and Health. It also looks at various guidelines to ensure the industry’s real needs are being met.