The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is opening a public consultation on their regulation of coal mines today.

This feedback will complement the statutory five yearly reviews of coal mine licences.

Most coal mine licences in NSW are due for review this year. This state-wide consultation complements the individual statutory five-yearly licence reviews and provides the community with a more streamlined opportunity to have their say.

The statewide consultation includes nearly 60 coal mines in NSW located in Central Coast, Cessnock, Lake Macquarie, Lithgow, Liverpool Plains, Maitland, Muswellbrook, Narrabri and Gunnedah, Singleton, 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. As such, 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.

Public consultation will open on 21 August 2024 and continue until 2 October 2024.

Find the consultation by searching ‘Have your say EPA’ or at https://yoursay.epa.nsw.gov.au/state-wide-coal-mine-consultation.

 Quotes attributable to Maryanne Stuart MP, Member for Heathcote

"The EPA's invitation for public input on the regulation of NSW coal mines will ensure that our community has a voice in how these operations are managed. With a number of licences up for review this year, this streamlined process will make it easier for everyone to have their say."

“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. “

“I’d encourage the community to participate and provide their feedback during the consultation period.”