Black lung disease, or coal workers’ pneumoconiosis (CWP), is caused by long-term exposure to coal mine dust. Once thought to be a thing of the past in Australia, it re-emerged in Queensland around a decade ago, with devastating consequences for coal miners and their families.
In this episode of Dust Disease Diaries, James O’Loghlin speaks with Stephen Smyth, General Vice President of the Mining and Energy Union and ADDRI Board Director, about the “perfect storm” of factors that led to black lung’s return and the fight to bring dust exposure back into focus as a critical workplace health and safety issue.
A third-generation coal miner with more than 35 years’ experience, Stephen played a pivotal role in raising the alarm. He reflects on the early signs that workers were becoming unwell, the impact of dust-related diseases on workers and their families, and the changes that have strengthened protections in the mining industry. He also talks about the cultural shift over the years - from a time when illness and injury were seen as just “part of the job”, to a new generation of miners who expect better protections for their health.
This episode highlights why vigilance, education and prevention remain essential, and why the lessons learned in mining must be applied across other industries to better protect workers from silicosis, asbestos and other dust-related diseases.
Stephen is a third-generation coal mineworker from Collinsville, Queensland, with over 35 years of experience in the coal industry.
As a former District President and now General Vice President of the Mining and Energy Union, Stephen has:
- Led initiatives to improve workplace safety and health standards.
- Played a pivotal role in addressing the re-emergence of black lung disease in Queensland, driving advancements in diagnosis, management, and prevention.
- Provided expert testimony in investigations and inquests following serious incidents.
- Represented mineworkers on national and international platforms.
Stephen’s dedication has left a lasting impact on mineworker safety, both in Australia and globally. His work extends to high-stakes investigations and global advocacy, ensuring mining companies prioritise worker welfare.
Stephen is an ADDRI Board Director.
Read more about Stephen Smyth.
To find out more about ADDRI, visit: www.addri.org.au
Thank you to our podcast interviewer and host, James O’Loghlin, and producer Rod Morri from Sydney Podcast Studios.
If you have any questions or comments, please email info@addri.org.au.
