Recruitment drive for skilled mine inspectors

The State Government is embarking on an international recruitment drive to attract skilled mines inspectors to Queensland, Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said today.

Mr Wilson said extra mines inspectors were being sought to address the health and safety needs of a growing Queensland mining industry.

“Mining in Queensland continues to expand significantly with new mines set to open in the next few years, more exploration activity and a growing workforce,” Mr Wilson said.

“We’re looking beyond the horizon and recruiting now to boost our world-class Mines Inspectorate,” he said.

Minister Wilson said twelve new mines inspectors would join the Inspectorate, bringing the total number of mines inspectors to 46.

“Queensland is proud of its international reputation for having one of the safest mining industries in the world,” he said.

Mr Wilson said the Mines Inspectorate had been revitalised to reflect a new, modern era of mining in Queensland.

“The new recruits will reap the benefits of a better career path backed up by better training and remuneration.

“This is about bringing on the next generation of mines inspectors who will help ensure Queensland’s high standards of mining health and safety are maintained,” he said.

Mr Wilson said the international recruitment campaign would focus its efforts on coal and metalliferous inspectors in the United Kingdom and India.

“We want to attract the best-qualified and most experienced inspectors to work in Queensland.

“My department helped train mines inspectors in India so we know they have the necessary skills and qualifications and there are also good recruitment opportunities in the United Kingdom, particularly in the mining communities of northern England.”

Mr Wilson said the government would continue to recruit within Australia for mines inspectors.

“We have successfully recruited two new mines inspectors within Australia.

“But the mining boom makes the market for mines inspectors in Australia very tight which is why we are expanding our recruitment efforts overseas.”

All newly-appointed mines inspectors will be located in regional Queensland.

Media Inquiries: Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819