A parliamentary inquiry will examine new and innovative approaches to post-mining land use in preparation for a slew of mine closures over the next decade.
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The inquiry will help ensure former mine sites can continue to bring economic investment and opportunities to regional communities after mining ends.
There are more than 50 large active mine sites across NSW, 37 of which are coal mines. Other sites, which were previously used for mining, continue to offer opportunities for new, productive uses of land.
"Mining is a temporary use of land. We need to make sure NSW has the right policy mix to keep employment and economic opportunities even after mines close," Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos said.
"We will work with industry, local government and unions to bring forward these exciting opportunities.
"This is an important inquiry that will help us deliver positive community benefits in regional areas across NSW.
Earlier this year, the NSW Resources Regulator signed off on the rehabilitation of part of the old Rhondda Colliery in Lake Macquarie. The Black Rock Motor Park and Tourism Resort will take over part of the site, bringing 450 jobs during construction and 229 permanent roles.
BHP's Mt Arthur, Idemitsu's Muswellbrook coal mine, and Yancoal's Stratford coal mine are investigating opportunities for pumped hydro and other clean energy uses.
The inquiry will consider how to accelerate and facilitate these uses, including through:
- the development of sites for use for advanced manufacturing, commercial and tourism use,
- reforms to the rehabilitation and planning regulatory frameworks that support mines,
- opportunities to promote the development of solar farms, pumped hydro and other clean energy industries that may be particularly suited to the form and nature of former mine sites,
- what investments in skills and training are needed to support the mining workforce,
- the potential of unlocking surrounding land for residential dwellings, amenities,environmental and educational facilities, and
- the compatibility of post mining land sites with commercial projects.
The inquiry is part of the government's efforts to support mining communities, in particular where coal mining plays an important economic role in the region.
"As a Hunter-based MP, I am committed to ensuring our mining communities across the state have a vibrant economic future, with secure, well-paid, local jobs," chair of the Standing Committee on State Development Emily Suvaal said.
"Exploring how we can improve the use post-mining land is crucial for the continued success of our rural and regional communities, who have contributed so much to our state's success.
"As chair of the State Development Committee, I am committed to conducting a robust and thorough inquiry into post-mining land use that will provide a blue print for the economic future of our mining communities."
Matthew Kelly
Matthew Kelly has worked as a journalist for more than 25 years. He has been working as a general reporter at the Newcastle Herald since 2018. In recent years he has reported on subjects including environment, energy, water security, manufacturing and higher education. He has previously covered issues including the health and environmental impacts of uncovered coal wagons in the Hunter Valley, the pollution of legacy of former industrial sites and freedom of information issues.
Matthew Kelly has worked as a journalist for more than 25 years. He has been working as a general reporter at the Newcastle Herald since 2018. In recent years he has reported on subjects including environment, energy, water security, manufacturing and higher education. He has previously covered issues including the health and environmental impacts of uncovered coal wagons in the Hunter Valley, the pollution of legacy of former industrial sites and freedom of information issues.
