Aaron Bunch Journalist with Australian Associated Press | Collection of published work | + 61 484 008 119 | abunch@aap.com.au
Tough new rules for Qld theme parks
Queensland has tough new safety rules for theme parks and amusement rides in response to the Dreamworld tragedy in 2016.
May 1, 2019
Queensland amusement rides and theme parks will be subject to tougher safety regulations from Wednesday following the Dreamworld tragedy, which claimed four lives.
The new regulations will require major inspections of rides by qualified engineers every ten years and improved training of ride operators.
Major amusement parks will have to adhere to a new Safety Case and Licensing System.
Inspections, maintenance and operator competency will also have to be properly recorded.
Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace says the changes ensure Queensland’s amusement rides and theme parks were as safe as possible.
“The tragedy at Dreamworld shocked and saddened us all,” Ms Grace said in a statement.
“We are taking action to ensure tourists and the wider community have faith in the safety measures that are in place.”
The changes pre-empt the findings of a coronial inquest into deaths of Cindy Low, Kate Goodchild, her brother Luke Dorsett and his partner Roozbeh Araghi at Dreamworld in October 2016.
Ms Grace said the coroner’s findings would be examined once handed down and further amendments made to the regulations if required.
The new regulations start on May 1 with a two-year transition period for some requirements.