Advocating for Byerwen Mine Workers’ Rights
In 2023, the Queensland Government introduced legislation mandating the closure of the Byerwen workers’ camp, forcing the relocation of the Mine’s workforce 40 minutes travel away to the tiny town of Glenden—a move enacted without consultation and buried in unrelated legislation.
Recognising the profound impact on our workforce and regional stability, QCoal anchored the formation of Energy Resources Queensland (ERQ), a coalition of industry leaders including Macmahon, MPK, and JFE (our international equity partner). Together, we launched a strategic campaign to challenge this unjust decision.
Our Objectives:
- Reverse the legislation threatening the Byerwen camp and 800 jobs.
- Advocate for worker choice and equitable treatment across Queensland’s mining sector.
- Hold government accountable to transparent, consultative policymaking.
How We Achieved Change
The ERQ campaign leveraged a multi-faceted approach:
- Public Awareness: Through media engagement and platforms like our campaign website tellthemwheretogo.com.au, we amplified worker voices and rallied statewide support.
- Regional advertising campaign: Including TV, Radio, Outdoor, Press and social media and digital channels.
- Political Advocacy: Targeting the 2024 State Election, we engaged voters and candidates to prioritise fair policies for mining communities.
- Coalition Strength: Partnering with industry stakeholders, we unified Queensland’s mining sector to oppose legislative overreach.
A Victory for Choice, Fairness, and Equity
In March 2025, Natural Resources and Mines Minister Dale Last announced an extension of the relocation deadline to December 2025 and confirmed the camp’s preservation for the mine’s operational life.
QCoal, alongside Energy Resources Queensland (ERQ), is justifiably proud of the successful outcome of our campaign to protect the Byerwen Mine workers’ camp.
Thanks to relentless advocacy and community support, we’ve ensured that 800 workers retain the choice to live on-site. This decision marks a pivotal win for fairness and workers’ rights in regional Queensland.
While we celebrate this milestone, QCoal and ERQ remain committed to collaborating with the State Government and local stakeholders to support Glenden’s sustainable future. Our focus remains fostering regional prosperity and employment.
We extend heartfelt thanks to our ERQ coalition members, our fantastic team and the Queenslanders who stood with us.
