THE FUTURE OF THE HUNTER

With uncertainty around mine approvals, future developments and the long-term outlook for the industry, residents, business owners and industry supporters gathered in Branxton to hear NSW Minerals Council CEO Stephen Galilee’s assessment of what lies ahead for coal mining in the Hunter.

When Rod Doherty moved to Kurri Kurri in the early 1970s, many of the local mines had already closed. He described the town as “a pretty sad looking place”, with families leaving and unemployment taking its toll on the community. More than 50 years later, those memories were one of the reasons he organised a public meeting in Branxton focused on the future of coal mining in the region.

The NSW Government’s announcement that no new standalone coal mines would be approved was another. While existing operations can still seek extensions, the decision raised questions about the long-term future of the industry and the opportunities available to future generations in the Hunter.

The meeting attracted local residents, former miners, industry workers, business owners and community members, along with Upper Hunter MP Dave Layzell and Cessnock MP Clayton Barr, all keen to hear Stephen’s assessment of where the industry is heading.

Stephen told attendees that despite repeated predictions of coal’s decline, global demand remains strong.

He pointed to record global coal demand in recent years, continued growth across many Asian economies and ongoing investment in coal-fired power generation and steel production throughout Australia’s key export markets.

Closer to home, he said NSW coal exports remain strong and around 25,000 people continue to work in coal mining across the state, including approximately 14,000 in the Hunter.

Stephen said there are currently 38 operating coal mines across NSW, including around 20 in the Hunter.

While some operations, including Mount Arthur, Mangoola and Myuna, are approaching the end of their mine lives, at least ten mines are seeking approval to extend their operations.

With around 2,500 jobs expected to be affected by upcoming mine closures, Stephen said the projects currently seeking extensions, which support around 8,000 workers, will play an important role in maintaining the region’s workforce.

Hunter Valley Operations (HVO), which supports around 1,500 jobs and is seeking approval to continue operating until 2045, was highlighted as one of the most significant projects currently before the planning system.

Rather than focusing on new mines, Stephen said the industry’s immediate priority is securing approvals for existing operations that want to continue producing coal, supporting jobs and contributing to regional economies.

The future of local jobs, businesses and communities was a recurring theme throughout the evening, along with the opportunities that will be available to future generations.

Having witnessed the impact mine closures had on local communities decades ago, Rod said he wanted people to understand the importance of the decisions being made today and the role they may play in shaping the Hunter’s future.