The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is running a public consultation on their regulation of coal mines. Community feedback will complement the statutory five yearly reviews of coal mine licences (most in NSW are due for review this year). The statewide consultation includes nearly 60 NSW coal mines, including those in Wingecarribee, Wollondilly and Wollongong. Coal mines are regulated through the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997, and through the Environment Protection Licence (EPLs) for each site. Climate change is an important consideration for the EPA; EPLs will be proactively updated to minimise emissions and exposure to climate risks, in alignment with the EPA’s Climate Change Policy and Action Plan 2023-26.

Maryanne Stuart MP, Member for Heathcote, is encouraging the community to send feedback, saying “Coal mining has a place in NSW history, supporting thousands of local jobs, but it is essential that the community has a voice on the monitoring, reporting and licence conditions of mines; ensuring our environment is protected.” 

• When: Consultation from 21 August to 2 October 2024.
• How: Via the EPA’s website.