The NSW Government’s intervention at Mount Pleasant coal mine will protect hundreds of Hunter jobs and give workers and their families vital certainty, the Mining and Energy Union said.
The Minns Government announced today it will legislate to address uncertainty created by the recent High Court decision affecting the mine’s 2022 expansion approval, allowing production of up to 16.5 million tonnes a year until 2032.
The statutory consent depends on MACH Energy maintaining its permanent workforce until 2032. Mount Pleasant currently supports 826 permanent employees and contractors.
MEU General President Grahame Kelly said the Government had listened to workers and acted quickly.
“This is a very welcome decision for Mount Pleasant workers and their families, who have faced enormous uncertainty through no fault of their own.
“Without urgent intervention, hundreds of mineworkers could have been out of a job by Christmas. The Government has recognised the unique circumstances and acted with the urgency required.”
The Union warned that reverting to the former 12.4-million-tonne annual limit could cost 370 jobs by Christmas and hit Hunter suppliers and local businesses.
“These are good mining jobs supporting families, businesses and communities across the Upper Hunter.
“We thank Premier Chris Minns and Resources Minister Courtney Houssos for acting decisively.
“There is more work to do on Mount Pleasant’s future beyond 2032, but the job security delivered by this announcement is very welcome.”
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Emily Holm
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