The LNP will restore a vital justice service for Queensland’s resources sector by re-establishing and increasing the powers of the Mining Warden’s Court disbanded under Labor. 

The Mining Warden’s Court will investigate fatal accidents on the state’s mine and quarry sites, with the Mining Warden appointed in both a Magistrate and a Coroner role, to empower full and fair investigations.  

Shadow Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the commitment was part of the LNP’s Right Plan for Queensland’s Future.  

“The LNP will bolster the safety of every Queenslander working in the resources sector, with a Mining Warden’s Court,” Mr Last said.  

“The safety of workers in the resources sector should be a priority to every Queenslander, and it is definitely a priority for the LNP.  

“Today we are sending a clear message to the industry that people will be held responsible for their actions and that, under an LNP government, lessons learnt from incidents will be acted on. 

“It means that the days of a Minister deciding whether or not to hold an inquiry come to an end, if there is an accident, families will be provided with the answers they deserve.”  

Mr Last said a key feature of the Mining Warden’s Court was the appointment of panellists with the relevant industry expertise but no connection to the site of the incident, for any Inquiry.  

“By combining the practical knowledge of the panellists with the legal powers of the Mining Warden, you ensure a full and frank examination of what went wrong and why,” Mr Last said.  

“It is ironic that Labor closed down the Minig Warden’s Court but, as recently as 2020 a Labor Minister spoke of how it had prevented incidents and saved lives.”  

When not acting in the capacity of Mining Warden, the appointed Magistrate will be available to undertake normal court duties, further lessening the load on our justice system. 

Mr Last said equipping Queensland courts so victims’ cases are heard sooner by boosting capacity of justice services was a key part of the LNP’s Right Plan for Queensland’s future. 

“The LNP will end Labor’s chaos and crisis and govern with integrity,” he said. 

“Our state needs a fresh start, only the LNP has the Right Plan for Queensland’s future.”