Why Queensland Coal Mine Supervisors Must Hold the G189 Qualification
In Queensland, supervisors working at coal mines—including surface and underground operations—must hold the nationally accredited G189 Mine Supervisor qualification (formerly known as S123). This requirement is not optional—it’s mandated by both the Coal Mining Safety and Health Act 1999 (s. 56) and the Mining and Quarrying Safety and Health Act 1999 (s. 51), as determined by the Mining Safety and Health Advisory Committee and the Coal Mining Safety and Health Advisory Committee https://www.crsh.qld.gov.au/advisory-committees/cmshac
Legislative Foundations
The legislative framework is explicit: any person appointed as a supervisor (or site safety and health representative) must complete competency units G1, G8, and G9—together comprising the G189 qualification. Without this qualification, an individual cannot legally hold the supervisor role on a coal mining site in Queensland.
What the G189 Qualification Covers
The course comprises three core nationally recognised units:
- G1 – RIIRIS301E: Apply Risk Management Processes
Training in hazard identification, risk assessment, implementing controls, and monitoring outcomes. - G8 – RIIWHS301E: Conduct Safety and Health Investigations
Skills in investigation procedures, root‑cause analysis, evidence gathering, and reporting. - G9 – RIICOM301E: Communicate Information
Competency in verbal and written safety communications (toolbox talks, pre‑start meetings, incident reporting).
These units equip supervisors with the necessary skills to manage safety-critical tasks effectively on-site and align supervisory duties with legislative standards.
Practical Delivery and Duration
Most training providers in Queensland deliver G189 in a two-day face‑to‑face course, often with the optional G2 unit (RIIRIS402E: Carry Out the Risk Management Process) included for no extra time or cost, strengthening supervisors’ risk management capabilities.
Online or blended delivery options are also available, typically requiring around 15–20 hours to complete and including workplace evidence or third‑party verification of competency
Following completion, participants receive a Statement of Attainment recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework—valid for five years, after which refresher training is mandatory to retain currency and compliance.
Why G189 Matters in Coal Mining Supervision
- Legal Compliance: Without G189, supervisors lack the qualifications mandated by Queensland mining safety laws. This can lead to site shutdowns or regulatory enforcement actions.
- Safety and Risk Management: The core units build essential competence in anticipating, assessing, and mitigating operational hazards. Supervisors learn to lead effective investigations, reducing incident recurrence.
- Communication Proficiency: Supervisors must effectively translate risks and operational directives to diverse teams. The G9 unit ensures capability in written and verbal communication critical in high-risk environments.
- Industry Credibility: Possessing G189 demonstrates that a supervisor meets nationally recognised competency standards—an expectation increasingly demanded by mine operators, contractors, and safety regulators.
Refreshing the Qualification
Queensland regulations require that supervisors refresh their G189 competencies at least every five years. This ensures that supervisors remain up to date with evolving legislation, technologies, and operational expectations in the mining sector .
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