Health and safety in Queensland’s resources industry will be boosted following the appointment of two experienced individuals to crucial positions.
Heidi Roberts has been appointed as the Commissioner for Resources Safety and Health and Robert Djukic will step into the role of permanent CEO of Resources Safety and Health Queensland after acting in the role.
Queensland Resources and Critical Minerals Minister, Scott Stewart, congratulated Ms Roberts on her appointment to the important role.
“She brings a wide range of experience to the vital position which will work across the resources industry to ensure safety is everyone’s top priority.
“Ms Roberts also helped lead reform in relation response to black lung disease in coal mine workers.”
Mr Stewart also congratulated Mr Djukic, who has been with RSHQ since it was established in 2020.
“I know the wealth of experience and knowledge he will bring to this role, now and into the future.
“In Mr Djukic’s former role as RSHQ’s Chief Operating Officer, he has overseen key milestones including the regulator’s response to the Coal Mining Board of Inquiry and the development and passage of the Resources Safety and Health Legislation Amendment Act 2024.”
Mr Stewart said that the health and safety of all workers is paramount for the State Government.
“Queensland now has the toughest mine safety and health laws in the world – including an offence of industrial manslaughter. That’s because we have implemented the most substantial suite of reforms to mine safety and health in 20 years.”
Ms Roberts said she is thrilled to accept the role of Commissioner Resources Safety and Health Queensland.
“I look forward to continuing to drive the culture of best practice and productive dialogue between industry, worker representative groups, subject matter experts and the Regulator, so that resource workers in Queensland can enjoy the strongest protections in safety and health.”
Mr Djukic said he strongly believes in RSHQ’s vision and purpose.
“I know we have an excellent team to deliver our important work. I am excited and honoured to officially accept the CEO role in a substantive capacity.
“I believe that clear communication, fairness and respect for persons are core to protecting safety and health and being an effective regulator – and these will continue being key focus areas of my leadership.”
Featured image: King Ropes Access/shutterstock.com
