From the Secretariat (Issue 76)

John Mawson, retiring Chairperson reflects on his 3 years in the position, 2011 – 2014

I was glad to be elected to the position of CMPA Chairperson in 2011 and have seen our Association continue to evolve over this time. A major objective has been getting face to face contact with Ministers to register CMPA concerns. this has occurred by way of meetings with Deputy Premier Peter Ryan in 2013, the Minister for energy and Resources, Russell Northe; the Minister for Water, Peter Walsh; and the Shadow Minister for energy and Resources, Lili D’Ambrosio in 2014. Meetings have also been held with the Red tape Commissioner, John Lloyd.

Of note was the Government Response to the economic Development Infrastructure Committee (eDIC) Report “Inquiry into Greenfields Mineral exploration and Project Development in Victoria” released in 2013. the Government Response does partially reflect CMPA members’ concerns. the recommendations of the document are now being implemented. CMPA has been active in this process and is endeavouring to ensure reduction in regulatory burden and costs to Members.

CMPA has focussed on the critical area of safety. the following documents are being or have been developed with input from Members: Blast Management Plan, Guarding Guidelines, Guidelines for the development of a traffic Management Plan, update of the Work Safely Reference manual and dust management training.

The CMPA has also been working hard on delivering education programs and lifting standards, for example, Industry employers and educational Providers Workshop, leading to the Conduct Haul truck operators training being developed. the Policy and Special Issues Fund has been well utilised for Members’ benefit. Funds went towards the development of training: collect routine site samples and conduct laboratory based tests, medical documents including functional assessments, short form transport contracts and credit application (terms and conditions of trade) as well as submissions on various State and Federal Government policies.

The basic challenges for the CMPA as a peak body in our industry remain:

• Achieving meaningful engagement and responses from Government at all levels,
• Improving access and relevance of training and increasing competencies in our industry, and
• Securing sustainable availability of raw materials for the future.

I am sure incoming Chairman, Garry Cranny, will enjoy the full support of the Membership and executive as we continue to address these very significant issues.

In conclusion, I would like to thank the Management Committee and Secretariat for their support and all of the voting, Associate and Workforce Members who have assisted the CMPA throughout my term in office.

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