Coal workers' pneumoconiosis (CWP)

What is CWP?

Coal workers’ pneumoconiosis is a lung disease most often caused by breathing in coal dust over a long period of time. It’s also known as ‘black lung disease’.

It’s not only underground coal miners who can be affected. If you’ve been a worker in an industry that involves mining (underground or open cut) or dealing with coal in another way such as loading or transporting, you could be at risk.

CWP can affect people in different ways. It all depends on how long you’ve been exposed to coal dust, differences in the dust itself, and other factors unique to you.

Learn more about Coal Workers' Pneumoconiosis (CWP)

You can also find out more about your employment and compensation rights (PDF, 0.12 MB) regarding CWP.

What should I do if I think I’ve been affected?

If you’re a current or former coal mine worker, your health assessments are managed by your employer and the Coal Mine Workers Health Scheme.

Former coal workers may also be eligible for a lung health check through our partnership with Heart of Australia - the cost of which can be covered under a workers’ compensation claim through WorkCover Queensland.

What if I’m told I have CWP?

If you have a coal mine dust lung disease you may be eligible for compensation. WorkCover Queensland is here to support you during this challenging  time.

Depending on your personal situation, you may be entitled to:

• reimbursements for medical expenses
• counselling support for you and your family
• weekly compensation for normal weekly earnings, where applicable
• return to work assistance
• lump sum compensation (this is dependent on your personal situation and can be discussed with your WorkCover Queensland contact)
• financial hardship assistance.

Please contact the specialist team for CWP on 1300 362 128 if you have any further questions about CWP.