NSW resources regulator targets conveyor fires, emergency exits and tailings risks in second-half 2025 crackdown

A new compliance crackdown by the NSW Resources Regulator will see underground coal mines, tailings dams, and small-scale quarries come under fresh scrutiny as part of a statewide push to address safety risks and regulatory non-compliance from July through December 2025.

Outlined in a just-released report, the Compliance Priorities July to December 2025 document sets out a comprehensive regulatory roadmap focused on improving mine safety, environmental protection, and rehabilitation performance across New South Wales.

Underground coal mines face heat over conveyor belt fires

Among the top safety concerns flagged is a rising trend in conveyor belt fires at underground coal mines. The Regulator recorded 17 fire incidents over a 30-month period ending in May 2025, with 10 occurring in the past year alone.

Failed components, misaligned belts and coal fines accumulation were common factors, while many incidents were first detected by workers rather than automated systems.

Twelve underground coal mines will be targeted in an inspection campaign, with performance to be tracked based on the number of conveyor fire incidents in the 12 months following the program.

Emergency exit concerns prompt metalliferous mine inspections

In underground metalliferous mines, concerns around the adequacy of emergency exits - particularly second egress routes - have prompted a targeted inspection program.

Inspectors will assess compliance with emergency planning requirements under NSW’s WHS Regulations, with a focus on escape route accessibility, signage, readiness of refuge chambers, and testing of procedures.

Tailings dams under renewed scrutiny

Following recent catastrophic tailings failures abroad - including the fatal Çöpler disaster in Turkey in February 2024 - NSW’s Regulator will expand its inspection focus to include inactive tailings storage facilities.

The inspections will assess dam wall integrity controls, emergency response planning, and monitoring systems, with the aim of identifying early indicators of structural failure. A follow-up campaign will assess whether critical risks have been mitigated.

Quarry safety spotlighted in entanglement and compliance blitz

Tier 2 quarries - smaller operations with fixed and mobile crushing or screening plants - will also be a focus, with inspectors zeroing in on entanglement risks and the effectiveness of safety management systems.

Over 800 notices were issued during a previous 12-month program targeting hazard and control plans. The current round will assess whether quarry operators have updated safety plans and trained workers accordingly.

Mine rehab and exploration activities to face audit and assessment

Under the Mining Act, the Regulator will conduct targeted audits and inspections aimed at ensuring progressive rehabilitation is being completed “as soon as reasonably practicable,” in line with statutory requirements.

These include targeted assessment programs (TAPs) examining revegetation outcomes, landform establishment, and groundwater quality risks, as well as audits of exploration activities focused on compliance with consultation, risk management and rehabilitation sign-off obligations.

A key development includes the staged rollout of a revised Rehabilitation Cost Estimate (RCE) tool from 1 October 2025, with mandatory adoption by 1 December. The overhaul, led by EHS Support Pty Ltd, aims to improve cost transparency and auditability for mine closure securities.

Opal mining sector under microscope

The opal mining sector will also face renewed scrutiny, with inspectors set to assess shaft safety, hoist integrity, rehabilitation compliance, and hazardous interactions with plant and vehicles. Education campaigns launched earlier this year will be followed up with on-the-ground compliance inspections.

New guidance and training projects launched

In addition to inspection programs, the Regulator is rolling out key strategic projects, including:

• Vehicle safety guide implementation: Following extensive stakeholder consultation, a new Technical Reference Guide for adverse vehicle interaction will be released this month, backed by education sessions and digital resources.

• Supervisor development videos: To improve hazard management and supervisor training, a professionally produced video will be made publicly available for mine sites to integrate into training programs.

Response to audit office recommendations

The updated compliance program also responds to four key recommendations handed down in June 2025 by the Audit Office of NSW. These include improving outcome measurement, addressing data gaps, publishing KPIs, and enhancing regulatory governance. The department has committed to delivering on these recommendations by June 2026.

Contact:
For more information on the NSW Resources Regulator’s compliance programs, visit resources.nsw.gov.au.