NSW Government's Future of Coal provides jobs and security for regional NSW
Regional communities that rely on coal mining for employment and economic prosperity have been given greater certainty and clarity about the future, with the NSW Government today outlining its plans for the coal mining industry.
The NSW Government’s Future of Coal statement released today, recognises that even as global economies transition to new energy sources, demand for coal in our part of the world will remain strong, and NSW is well placed to take advantage of this.
Deputy Premier and Minister responsible for Resources John Barilaro said coal mining will remain a key industry for some decades to come, generating jobs for regional communities and royalties that can be used to pay for essential public services and infrastructure.
“The NSW coal industry directly employs around 28,600 people and almost 114,000 people indirectly, and underpins around 80% of the state’s energy supply,” Mr Barilaro said.
“In the wake of the worst drought on record, devastating bushfires and the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, the job security, economic growth and prosperity provided by the coal industry to our state, especially regional communities, has never been more important.
“At the same time, we are working to reduce emissions in the mining sector, support responsible coal production, address community concerns and deliver $50 million worth of new infrastructure projects and community programs to mining affected towns under the Resources for Regions program.
“We are determined to set a clear and consistent policy framework that supports investment certainty in NSW as the coal sector responds to global demand.”
Member for Upper Hunter Michael Johnsen said it was about striking the right balance to give the coal industry and regional communities the time they need to adapt and diversify their economies as the world transitions to a lower carbon future.
“NSW coal is high quality due to its high temperature burn, low ash, low moisture and low sulphur content. Around 85% of thermal coal mined in NSW is exported, mainly to Japan, China, South Korea and Taiwan, where it is used to generate electricity,” Mr Johnsen said.
The NSW Government will work with communities which currently depend on coal to plan for the future and help diversify their economies over the coming decades.
For more information, visit NSW Resources and Geoscience.