The $7 million fine and recorded industrial manslaughter conviction handed by the District Court in Brisbane today is a watershed moment in the fight for justice for miners killed at work.
Today's sentencing of Mastermyne Crinum Operations relates to the 2021 death of experienced mineworker Graham Dawson, and is the first successful prosecution under industrial manslaughter laws in the Queensland mining industry.
Mining and Energy Union General Vice President Stephen Smyth said that while nothing would return Graham to his family, today is a milestone for justice and accountability:
"This conviction sends a powerful message to the industry that negligence resulting in the death of a worker will not go unpunished.
"Workers have campaigned for these laws, and this decision reaffirms that all workers are entitled to a safe and healthy workplace – and also entitled to justice when their safety is undermined."
The MEU shares concerns that these could be covered by Mastermyne's insurance claims and is calling for the relevant laws to be amended to prevent this.
The MEU is aware of Mastermyne's intention to appeal. We support the judge's determination that: "Mr Dawson's death was avoidable. It was the defendant's criminal negligence that contributed significantly to his death."
Mr Smyth said the Union would continue to campaign for justice and accountability.
