DAN REPACHOLI MP

MEMBER FOR HUNTER

MEDIA RELEASE

25 September 2024

MINING EXTENSIONS GREAT NEWS FOR THE HUNTER

The Federal Government has approved mining extensions for major coal mining operations in the Hunter Valley, granting the go-ahead for expanded activities at MACH Energy's Mt Pleasant Operations in Muswellbrook, Yancoal’s Ashton Coal Project in Camberwell, and Narrabri's Underground Mine Stage 3 Extension Project owned by Whitehaven Coal.

These approvals will allow the respective companies to increase coal production, secure existing jobs, and drive sustained economic growth in the region.

The projects will provide long-term employment for hundreds of workers in the Hunter Valley, ensuring a steady stream of economic contributions to the community.

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Hunter, Dan Repacholi MP:

“This is great news for everyone in the Hunter Valley.

“The Hunter Valley has a proud history of coal production, and these approvals reflect the careful balance we are striking between economic growth and environmental responsibility.

“This gives workers in the Hunter the certainty that their jobs in mining are safe for decades to come.

“This is just further evidence that this government has the backs of miners in the Hunter Valley.

“The conditions placed on these extensions ensure that mining can continue in a way that benefits local communities while protecting our natural environment.

“We have said from day one that if projects stack up environmentally, economically, and socially, we support them going ahead.

“I look forward to more mining approvals coming in the years ahead.”