What is CWP? Coal Workers’ Pneumoconiosis, commonly known as 'black lung disease,' is a respiratory condition primarily caused by prolonged exposure to coal dust. It affects not only underground coal miners but also individuals working in mining (underground or open cut) or engaged in coal-related activities like loading or transporting.
The impact of CWP varies from person to person, influenced by factors such as the duration of coal dust exposure, the nature of the dust, and individual characteristics.
Learn more about Coal Workers' Pneumoconiosis (CWP) and explore your employment and compensation rights regarding CWP.
What should I do if I suspect I've been affected? For current or former coal mine workers, health assessments are overseen by employers and the Coal Mine Workers Health Scheme.
What if I'm diagnosed with CWP? If diagnosed with a coal mine dust lung disease, you may qualify for compensation. WorkCover Queensland is here to assist you during this challenging period.
Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for:
- Reimbursement of medical expenses
- Counseling support for you and your family
- Weekly compensation for regular earnings, where applicable
- Return-to-work assistance
- Lump sum compensation (subject to individual circumstances, discussed with your WorkCover Queensland contact)
- Financial hardship assistance.
For further inquiries about CWP, please contact the specialist team at WorkCover Queensland on 1300 362 128.
CWP Fact sheets
Factsheets
- Support for former coal workers - how to lodge a claim (PDF, 0.04 MB)
- Support for current coal workers - how to lodge a claim (PDF, 0.04 MB)
- Mine Dust Lung Diseases information for current coal mine workers (PDF, 4.5 MB)
- Respiratory health and workers’ compensation information for former Queensland mine and quarry workers (PDF, 1.57 MB)
- Mine dust lung diseases and workers’ compensation in Queensland (PDF, 2 MB)
- Pocket guides for coal mine workers
Online content
CWP Video resources
What is CWP? Watch this video produced by the Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy, answering the question - what is Coal Workers' Pneumoconiosis (CWP)?
CMDLD prevention
Watch this video produced by the Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy, discussing the prevention of coal mine dust lung diseases (CLDLD).
CMDLD detection
Watch this video produced by the Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy, discussing the detection of coal mine dust lung diseases (CLDLD).