NSW Rules Out New Coal Mines, Tightens Rules for Expanding Old Ones

NSW Natural Resources Minister Courtney Houssos says the move is part of the state government’s net zero plan.

Liddell power station in the Hunter Valley region of New South Wales, Australia on Apr. 22, 2018. AAP Image/Dan Himbrechts

The New South Wales (NSW) government is ruling out any new coal mines and will not invest in any more coal exploration, according to its latest NSW Coal Industry 2026-50 plan.

Exploration will, however, be permitted near existing mine sites under a strict approval process, while existing coal exploration licences will continue under “use it or lose it” renewal rules.