Tough new rules that tighten the issue of explosive licences in Queensland have been announced by the Minister for Natural Resources, Mines and Energy, Anthony Lynham.
Dr Lynham said a new Explosives Security Clearance had been introduced, enhancing criminal history checks before security-sensitive explosives licences such as blasting licences could be issued.
He said the move would have a particular effect on domestic violence.
“People with domestic violence orders against them would no longer be able to hold an explosives licence in Queensland,” Dr Lynham said.
“The Explosives Inspectorate will be working closely with the Queensland Police Services to continuously monitor Security Clearance holders,” he said.
“Security clearance and explosives licences will be suspended or cancelled for any current or future domestic violence orders.”
He said the changes lined up with recommendations made in the Not Now, Not Ever report of the Special Taskforce on Domestic and Family Violence.
The new move was welcomed by the Department of Natural Resources Mines and Energy’s Chief Inspector of Explosives, Alex Mandl who said it would help ensure explosives didn’t end up in the wrong hands.
“The Inspectorate’s number one priority is to keep the community safe and these changes will help us do that,” Mr Mandl said.
“Government, the Inspectorate and industry have worked together to develop and deliver these practical, reasonable and significant security improvements.”
He said the new regulatory, safety and licensing requirements followed changes to Queensland’s explosives legislation introduced in March 2019.
Dr Lynham said a new Explosives Driver Licence had also been introduced, requiring drivers to be 21 or over, have adequate training and experience and also have no Domestic Violence Orders against them.
“There’s also stronger regulations regarding the transportation and storing of potentially dangerous materials, and the Explosives Inspectorate now has greater control over explosives transport routes and plans,” the Minister said.
