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Over 100 people representing the WA mining sector, government, MARS Program partners, and Edith Cowan University (ECU) celebrated the official launch of the Mining Awareness, Respect & Safety (MARS) Centre in the Perth CBD on Monday 6 November 2023.
The MARS Centre, an industry collaboration centre, is set to play a pivotal role in collaboratively working with the West Australian mining industry to create mentally healthy workplaces, build a culture of safety and respect and prepare for workplace safety in future mining.
Guests at the launch celebration were treated to insights and valuable perspectives from several distinguished speakers. These included Vice Chancellor of ECU Steve Chapman, The Hon Bill Johnston MLA, Minister for Mines and Petroleum, ECU School of Business and Law (SBL) Executive Dean Professor Maryam Omari, MARS Centre Professorial Chair Tim Bentley, and Acting Work Safe Commissioner, Sally North.
Vice Chancellor of ECU, Steve Chapman began the event with an opening speech, emphasising the significance of the MARS Centre for both the mining sector, the WA State Government and the community at large. He was thankful of the collaboration with the Department of Mines and Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIR) who provided the grant to begin the centre, and the ongoing support for the important project.
The Hon Bill Johnston MLA, Western Australia's Minister for Mines and Petroleum, expressed his support for the MARS Centre and highlighted the WA Government's commitment to safety and well-being in the mining industry acknowledging that culture change is one of the most important factors. He was pleased that the government was able to partner with ECU on the MARS Centre.
SBL Executive Dean Professor Maryam Omari spoke about the role of the School of Business and Law (SBL) in this collaboration and its commitment to facilitating research, education, and outreach that can bring about positive changes in the mining sector.
Professor Omari highlighted the recent achievements of the School of Business and Law at ECU including accreditation by The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International where ECU’s School of Business and Law now prestigiously joins only 5.7% of business schools globally who have this accreditation.
Professor Omari said "One of the commendations we received during the accreditation process was for our 'positive, collaborative and collegial workplace culture in the School.' We have many accolades, but this is the one that I am most proud."
The event also featured an engaging speech by MARS Centre Professorial Chair Tim Bentley, who provided an overview of the centre's objectives and outlined the strategies it would employ to achieve its mission. He emphasised that the MARS Centre would be a hub for innovative research and knowledge sharing to enhance safety, well-being, and to bring about culture change in the mining industry.
He also announced new undergraduate and post graduate courses, soon to be available at ECU, that will prepare the mining leaders of today and tomorrow focusing on leadership, healthy workplaces and building a culture of safety and respect.
The official launch of the MARS Centre marks a significant milestone in the journey to create a safer and more respectful mining sector. Through its focus on research, education, and a risk-based approach to addressing WHS risks, this industry collaboration centre is poised to make a substantial and enduring impact.
As the MARS Centre begins its work, it is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the mining industry, prioritising the well-being of its workforce and fostering a culture of awareness and respect.
For more information on the MARS project visit the ECU MARS website.
