Hunter Valley Operations coal mine extension approved

The NSW Independent Planning Commission has approved the Hunter Valley Operations (HVO) Continuation Project, extending the life of open-cut coal mines near Singleton until 2045.

NSW Resources Minister Courtney Houssos and Maitland Member Jenny Aitchison supported the decision, noting it provides long-term certainty for approximately 1,500 workers and supports the regional economy. Houssos stated that coal mining remains an integral part of the NSW economy.

The approval has faced significant criticism from environmental advocates. Greens MP Cate Faehrmann argued the expansion undermines NSW climate emissions reduction targets, while Rising Tide spokesman Campbell Knox described the decision as a major climate policy failure. Critics also highlighted the potential link between continued coal extraction and worsening natural disasters like fires and floods.