The Upper Hunter Mining Dialogue’s latest webinar offered a timely look at one of the biggest questions facing mining communities: how regions can plan for change in a way that is practical, inclusive and grounded in local strengths.
Held on March 3, the session featured Associate Professor Jessica Reeves from Federation University Australia, who shared lessons from regions that have already begun transitioning from mining into new industries. Drawing on examples from the United States, Germany, Collie in Western Australia and the Latrobe Valley in Victoria, she explored the idea of “Just Transition” and what it can mean in real terms for communities thinking about what comes next.
Rather than focusing only on the end of mining, the webinar looked at the broader picture of how regions prepare for the future. Associate Professor Reeves spoke about the importance of early planning, shared governance, skills mapping and long-term investment from both government and the private sector.
The discussion also highlighted the need to think carefully about post-mining land use and economic diversification, and how regions can build on the assets, capabilities and knowledge they already have.
A particularly important theme was the role of community voice in shaping that future. Associate Professor Reeves reinforced the importance of ensuring young people and First Nations communities are part of the conversation, so they are not only considered in future planning but have the opportunity to help lead it. For regions navigating change, that sense of inclusion is critical to building confidence and a shared vision for what lies ahead.
More than 35 participants joined the webinar, with questions reflecting strong interest in how lessons from Australian and international examples could help inform future land use planning and diversification in the Upper Hunter.
As part of the Upper Hunter Mining Dialogue’s broader work, the session provided a valuable opportunity to bring global and local thinking together and continue the conversation about the region’s long-term future.
| The webinar was recorded and is available on the Dialogue’s website: https://miningdialogue.com.au/news/webinars |
