March 19, 2026
The NSW Minns Labor Government has outlined a pragmatic future for the state’s coal industry in its NSW Coal Industry 2026-50 Document, released today.
The Mining and Energy Union (MEU) welcomed the Document’s support for coal mine extensions, and its acknowledgement of coal’s importance to jobs, the NSW economy, and the energy and industrial needs of our trading partners.
MEU General President Grahame Kelly said “coal is the economic lifeblood of many regional communities in NSW, and that greater clarity about the industry’s future is welcome.”
“There are currently thousands of NSW coal workers at mines seeking extensions who are wondering about the longevity of their jobs.”
“This Document provides confidence that these applications can be successful and supported by the NSW Government. We will continue to advocate for the approval of mine extensions to sustain jobs and meet demand for NSW’s high‑quality energy and steel‑making coal.
“However, the ban on new greenfield coal mines is disappointing and may lead to missed opportunities at a time of economic uncertainty and industry flux.”
The Document confirms that the coal industry will continue to operate in compliance with state and federal emissions reduction requirements.
“Coal mine operators are already demonstrating that the industry can operate while contributing to shared climate and environmental goals,” Mr Kelly said.
“We must ensure NSW benefits from the well‑paid jobs and substantial economic activity generated by coal mining for as long as demand remains. This Document does set out a pathway for that to occur, and we will hold governments to account to ensure it does.”