The Queensland Government is set to introduce legislation aimed at strengthening safety governance across the state’s resources sector.
The Resources Safety and Health Queensland and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026 was tabled by minister for natural resources and mines Dale Last. It follows an independent review ordered by the government in 2025 that found significant weaknesses in the Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) system.
“The findings of the review we commissioned into the RSHQ were sobering – every worker deserves to make it home safe to their family,” he said.
“The legislation we’ve introduced is making Queensland safer for every mine worker and will restore confidence in the resources safety framework.”
The reforms propose major structural changes, including the establishment of a new independent skills-based Governing Board to oversee RSHQ. This board is expected to strengthen oversight and accountability, streamline advisory functions, and eliminate duplicative governance arrangements.
Under the bill, the statutory functions of the Commissioner for Resources Safety and Health would be transferred to the new board, creating clearer lines of responsibility. The legislation also expands the functions of key advisory bodies such as the Coal Mining Safety and Health Advisory Committee and the Mining Safety and Health Advisory Committee, giving them enhanced roles in shaping safety and health policy.
“The Crisafulli Government wants to see more investment in Queensland’s resources sector which is why we will repeal legislation that would put the onus on mining companies to fund the Land Access Ombudsman, removing unnecessary red tape and financial burden,” Last said.
“We are delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy by reducing industry costs so mining companies can get on with delivering jobs for Queenslanders.”
The reforms extend to land access issues, with changes to how the Land Access Ombudsman is funded and operates. Rather than industry funding the role, the government will continue to fund the position, with independent investigations and mediation driven by Coexistence Queensland.
The bill is now progressing through parliament.