The Mining and Energy Union has responded to the NSW Net Zero Commission’s Coal Mining Emissions Spotlight Report, emphasising the continuing importance of coal mining to the state's economy and regional communities, and the need for clear, consistent emissions policy.
MEU General Secretary Grahame Kelly said coal mining remains a foundation of regional prosperity in NSW, supporting jobs, local small businesses and billions in annual state revenue.
“Coal mining delivers more than $3 billion a year in royalties for NSW and supports thousands of secure, well-paid regional jobs,” Mr Kelly said. “It also accounts for just 12 per cent of the state’s total emissions. Any policy discussion needs to recognise both sides of that equation.”
“We look forward to the Commission applying the same level of attention to the other 88 per cent of emissions across the state’s economy,” Mr Kelly said.
Mr Kelly said the union has been clear in consultations with the Commission that the Commonwealth Safeguard Mechanism is already the established national framework for regulating emissions from coal mines.
“The Safeguard Mechanism already requires mines to measure, report and reduce emissions, and it is driving investment in new technology,” he said. “Introducing additional state-based requirements of the kind suggested in the report risks creating overlapping obligations when a national system is already in place. Workers and communities need consistency and stability, not multiple sets of rules.”
Mr Kelly said coal mining will remain central to regional economies as new industries develop over time.
“Coal communities in the Hunter, Illawarra, Central West and North West have powered NSW for generations,” he said. “Coal continues to provide the economic base that allows regional communities to plan for the future.”
He said the MEU supports orderly, well-planned regional transition — not premature measures that could affect existing jobs.
“A balanced approach is essential,” Mr Kelly said. “We welcome investment in new industries, but the Commission should avoid recommending policies that would constrain necessary and viable coal operations at a time when those jobs, royalties and export earnings remain critical for regional NSW.”
Mr Kelly said the MEU will continue to engage constructively with the NSW Government and the Commission.
“Our priority is ensuring that emissions policy is fair, nationally consistent and supports the long-term wellbeing of workers and regional communities.” He said.
Contact details:
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Emily Holm |
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M 0400 382 271 E [email protected] |