NSW Mine Safety Advisory Council appoints new chairperson

On 21 February 2012, Minister for Resources and Energy, Chris Hartcher announced the appointment of John Hannaford as Chairman of the NSW Mine Safety Advisory Council (MSAC).
  
Mr Hannaford has held senior roles in State Government including;

• Minister for Industrial Relations and Vice President of the Executive Council
• Minister for State Development
• Minister for Health and Community Services
• Attorney General

Mr Hannaford’s appointment as Chair of the Council follows the death of Mr Norman Jennings late last year. Mr Jennings held the role since 2006.

For more information, please see the full media release.

Overview of the NSW Mine Safety Advisory Council

The NSW Mine Safety Advisory Council (MSAC) was established in 1998 following recommendations made in the Mine Safety Review and Gretley Inquiry to provide the Minister with advice on critical OHS issues of importance to the NSW Government. The Council was strengthened in 2006 and has aimed to increase the emphasis on safety and health within the mining industry by reviewing and analysing safety performance, setting strategic directions, providing advice and developing policy recommendations.

MSAC has strengthened by:

• the appointment of two independent experts in OHS
• setting up a secretariat to service MSAC
• making resources available, when appropriate through the DTIRIS, to explore issues and commission research.

MSAC members are representatives of some of the most respected bodies in the mining industry including the CFMEU (Mining and Energy Division), Australian Workers Union, NSW Minerals Council and Cement Concrete and Aggregates Australia. Two independent experts in occupational health and safety have also been appointed to the Council.

The Minister refers matters to the Council for its consideration and advice on appropriate ways forward in the continual drive to foster improved OHS performance in the industry. To date this has included a range of issues including:

• the Wran Mine Safety Review recommendations indicating Council action
• world-leading OHS culture
• National Mine Safety Strategy Framework
• oversight of industry sector advisory committees
• performance measures.

MSAC has operated in an environment of trust and co-operation to address these issues and all stakeholders demonstrate a willingness to support the work of the Council and move forward on mutual matters of importance as one group. The Council meets at least four times per year.

Further information

Terms of reference for the Mine Safety Advisory Council

Members of the Mine Safety Advisory Council

Website - the Mine Safety Advisory Council's dedicated website - www.nswminesafety.com.au