October 1, 2024
The Albanese government has announced it will approve extensions for three coal mines across the Hunter Valley and Gunnedah Basin in NSW. The extensions are expected to safeguard the jobs of over 1,800 workers, supporting communities largely dependent on the mining industry.
Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek approved Whitehaven Coal’s planned Stage 3 Extension Project at Narrabri, extending underground mining operations from 2031 to 2044.
Mach Energy’s Optimisation Project at Mount Pleasant mine near Muswellbrook was approved, significantly expanding future open cut thermal coal operations and increasing its annual coal extraction up to 21 million tonnes per annum. Furthermore, the mine’s operation was extended until 2048. The project will increase average operational workforce to 600 with a peak of 830 people.
The Ashton Coal Operations Ravensworth Underground Mine received approval for longwall mining for eight years until 2032.
The announcement was met by strong opposition from environmentalist groups, sparking protests that halted the operation of a coal train headed for the Port of Newcastle. Despite the opposition, Plibersek re-affirmed that the extensions are in line with existing climate laws.