A mining company has become the first to face industrial manslaughter charges in Queensland. 

In 2021, coal miner Graham Dawson, 60, was killed when the roof of Mastermyne’s Crinum Mine, located near Rockhampton, collapsed, trapping him beneath. 

It took four days to recover his body.

The charges, laid by the Office of the Work Health and Safety Prosecutor, are a result of legislation introduced in Queensland in 2020, which allows for industrial manslaughter prosecutions. 

The incident also resulted in the grievous bodily harm of another worker. 

This case marks the first time such charges have been applied within the state’s mining sector.

A spokesperson for Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ), which investigated the incident, confirmed that it had presented a brief of evidence to the prosecutor. 

“This is the first time a charge of industrial manslaughter has been made under mining safety and health legislation since it came into effect in 2020,” the spokesperson stated.

The Mining and Energy Union, which represents Dawson’s colleagues, welcomed the charges. 

“While nothing can make up for the tragic loss of Graham, it is a relief to know that those in charge of operations at Crinum will be held to account,” said union district president Mitch Hughes. 

Mastermyne, a subsidiary of ASX-listed Metarock, has issued a brief statement through the Australian Securities Exchange, noting that the company is “considering its position”.

“Because this matter is now before the court, it is not appropriate for the company to make further public comments about the incident until the conclusion of the legal proceedings,” it said.

The case is set to test Queensland's new industrial manslaughter laws, which could result in a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment for individuals or fines of up to $16 million for the company, should it be found guilty. 

Hughes noted that the mining industry in Queensland has seen “unacceptable rates of fatalities and serious injuries” in recent years, highlighting the importance of this case for future safety standards.

The mining company will appear in the Emerald Magistrates Court on November 19.

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