Fund Our Future: Coal Communities Need Real Support
Our coal regions built NSW. For generations, we've powered this state and contributed billions to public revenue. Now, as the coal industry declines, our communities deserve a properly-funded transition, not token gestures.
Why this matters now: Coal production in Australia is projected to fall by 42-51% by 2035. The change is coming whether we're ready or not. Our communities need real funding and real plans to prepare for the biggest economic shift since the industrial revolution.
The Problem
NSW coal regions generate billions in coal royalties every year - money that goes into state coffers while our communities face an uncertain future.
The government's current commitment of just $25 million per year is nowhere near enough to support economic diversification, land rehabilitation, and worker transition across four coal regions.
That's less than 1% of what our regions contribute in royalties.
What We're Demanding
1. Fair Funding
At least $150 million per year into the Future Jobs and Investment Fund - approximately 5% of coal royalty revenue. Our contribution deserves a proportionate response.
2. Meaningful Worker Support
- Mine operators must be required to actually implement worker transition plans, not just write them
- Plans must include paid retraining, career advice, financial support, and help finding new jobs
- Real penalties for non-compliance - not the current slap-on-the-wrist $33,000 maximum fine
3. Environmental Accountability
Transition planning must include biodiversity protection, land restoration, and climate resilience. Our regions shouldn't be left with degraded land when the mines close.
4. Local Voice
- Local advisory bodies must include community members, workers, unions, First Nations representatives, and environmentalists
- Coal industry representatives should be excluded - they have a vested interest in maintaining the status quo, not planning for our future
- Regular, mandatory community consultations
5. Transparency
Mine closure dates, workforce plans, and regional adjustment plans must be made public so communities know what's coming and can hold decision-makers accountable.
This Fight Continues
While the Future Jobs and Investment Bill is currently before Parliament, our campaign doesn't end there. The 2026 NSW Budget is our next critical opportunity to secure the funding our regions need.
Every year that passes without adequate preparation is a year lost. Economic diversification takes time. Worker retraining takes time. Land rehabilitation takes time. We need to start now, and we need proper resources to do it right.
Take Action
Add your name to demand fair funding and real support for coal community transition. Whether you're a coal worker, a small business owner, a parent worried about your kids' future, or someone who believes our regions deserve better - your voice matters.
