The NSW Independent Planning Commission is currently considering a proposal to extend the Hunter Valley Operations (HVO) coal mine near Singleton in the Upper Hunter region until the end of 2045. This 19-year extension, part of the HVO Continuation Project, would allow the mining of an additional 429 million tonnes of coal, generating an estimated 809 million tonnes of CO2 emissions.

More than 1,500 jobs are at stake with this decision, which involves the Yancoal-Glencore joint venture whose existing approvals expire in December 2026.

Activist group Parents for Climate rallied outside NSW Parliament House on August 27, 2026, expressing deep concern about the environmental consequences. CEO Nic Seton described himself as "terrified" by the prospect, highlighting the ongoing impact of climate change on his primary school-aged children, including evacuations and hospitalizations due to bushfire smoke during the black summer.

Seton criticized the notion that 98% of emissions would be Scope 3—indirect emissions from coal burnt overseas—saying he took no comfort in this distinction. He argued that approving coal mine extensions places an unfair burden on future generations.

In contrast, HVO representatives, including Mr. Bateman, acknowledged that both climate and employment impacts are valid considerations but emphasized that the current proposal aligns with government requirements. Bateman noted, "The mine only equates to less than 1 per cent of NSW's annual emissions." He also highlighted the opportunities mining provides for local youth through apprenticeships and cadetships, and the benefits of working close to home.

The decision balances economic and environmental concerns as the commission weighs the future of one of NSW's largest coal mines.

Sources