The Minns Labor Government welcomes the determination by the Independent Planning Commission (IPC) to approve continuation of one of the State’s largest mining operations, subject to strict conditions, in a decision that backs local jobs and the Hunter’s mining industry.
The approval is the final step in the NSW planning process for Hunter Valley Operations (HVO) to continue production of high-quality thermal coal and coking coal used in steelmaking from its open cut mining complex near Singleton until the end of 2042 for HVO South and the end of 2045 for HVO North.
Conditions require HVO to report annually against greenhouse gas emissions targets, commit to using renewable energy in its operations, and minimise downstream emissions by exporting to countries that are either party to the Paris Agreement or with comparable frameworks.
Ahead of the IPC’s determination, the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure undertook a rigorous whole-of-government assessment that considered potential impacts including emissions, biodiversity and water resources, as well as economic and social impacts.
Compared to the 2022 application, this proposal has 43 per cent less Scope One emissions. The proposal still requires approval from the Federal Government under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.
If approved by the Federal Government, the project will secure ongoing jobs for up to 1,500 people and create about 600 temporary jobs involved in infrastructure upgrades – providing further opportunities for local Hunter industry and trades.
In March, the Minns Government set a clear direction for the coal industry publishing its NSW Coal Industry 2026-50 document, which balances energy security, jobs and regional development with the need to reduce emissions and meet NSW’s net zero targets.
Coal remains an important part of the NSW economy. The Coal Industry document permits the extension of existing coal mine operations while ending applications for greenfield mines.
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said:
“Today’s decision means long-term jobs for the Hunter.
“This government stands up for the Hunter, and we are proud to back coal mining and the jobs that support it. Mining has powered our region for generations and commonsense decisions like this one will ensure that contribution can continue.
“We don’t have to choose between the jobs and industries that sustain our economy today and the opportunities we’re building for the future. This decision does both.
“I know many local families will sleep easier tonight knowing this proposal has now cleared a major planning hurdle.”
Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos said:
“This is a great outcome for workers and communities across the Hunter. There are 1,500 families who can once again look to the future with optimism.
“We’ve set a clear direction for the future of coal with the NSW Coal Industry 2026-50 document that supports continued mining where it is already occurring and maintains NSW as a reliable supplier for our key trading partners.
“This decision shows the process works and will provide workers and industry greater confidence about the road ahead.
“Coal mining has supported the NSW economy, powered local industries and sustained thousands of jobs for generations. This decision means Hunter Valley Operations will continue to be an integral and intrinsic part of the NSW economy.”
Duty MLC for Upper Hunter Emily Suvaal MLC said:
“This decision secures high-quality, long-term jobs for our region.
“The Hunter has long powered our state, and mining has been a critical driver in our success.
“Coal mining is part of the Hunter’s DNA, it backs our economy and supports a host of jobs and industry, both on site and in the towns around them. The contribution of this industry is not behind us, it is still being made today.”
/countries/cook-islands/20801_1920px.tmb-768v.jpg?sfvrsn=413b0b1_1)
