This year's conference theme, 'Mining and the Community: Safety, Health and Sustainability', will explore a number of issues faced by a sector focused on remaining both viable and sustainable in evolving political and environmental landscapes.

The Chamber has also adopted an innovative format that is characterised by a series of presentations including a TV-style panel interview, a facilitated debate and a mock spotlight enquiry exploring a range of issues common to mining operations around the globe.

Issues to be studied include mine safety and sustainable development, social license to operate - managing beyond the mine boundary, health risk assessment, working and retiring healthy and protecting and enhancing the corporate reputation.

Speakers at the conference embrace a variety of backgrounds, including BHP Billiton vice-president Safety Barry Formosa, Minerals Council of Australia chief executive Mitchell Hooke and Corrs Chambers Westgarth Partner Dr Breen Creighton.

For more details please contact the Chamber of Minerals and Energy at www.cmewa.com