The Wire

How would you like to work six ten-hour shifts in an underground mine per week? Most people would choose flexibility, so you have time to spend with your family, get a decent sleep and are able to wake up the next day, not feeling like a zombie. According to the Australian Workers Union, some mining companies are not giving employees that choice. Instead they’re forcing miners to sign contracts with the condition that miners work long hours or they don’t work at all. Union representative Mick Madden says working beyond the federal recommended rate of 48 hours per week causes such fatigue that it becomes a safety issue, which could result in accidents, family breakdown or, even death. He claims under state legislation it’s illegal for companies to issue contracts – otherwise known as Australian Workplace Agreements – with conditions that promote working long hours over workers’ safety. Taya Fabijanic spoke to Mick Madden, representative from the Australian Workers Union and Bob Besley, Managing Director, CBH Resources (which own Endevour Mines). The Wire contacted the Chief Inspector of Mines, Graham Terry, and the Department of Mineral Resources, both of whom refused to comment.