The NSW Government is introducing legislation to establish the Future Jobs and Investment Authority aiming to deliver on its commitment to secure the future of NSW’s coal-producing communities.

The statutory authority will partner with all levels of government, industry and the community to unlock investment opportunities and facilitate new opportunities for jobs.

Around 90% of NSW coal is shipped to nearly 30 countries, and demand for our high-quality product remains strong. With around 40 mines in operation across the Hunter, Illawarra, Central West and North West, coal is NSW’s number one export.

The coal industry delivers $2.7 billion each year through economic activity and royalties that flow back to the people of NSW – while supporting thousands of regional jobs.

The legislation has been drafted following extensive consultation with industry bodies, mine operators, unions, universities, business groups, local councils, local advocacy and community groups across all four regions.

Local Divisions will be established in each coal-producing region, ensuring decisions reflect local priorities and community voices.

The Bill gives the Authority powers and functions to:

• attract investment to create new jobs and industries
• facilitate post mining land use for productive purposes
• lead genuine community engagement through the four Local Divisions
• report on mine closures to keep communities informed
• provide workforce support.

New regulatory requirements will require coal mine operators to begin planning to support their workers for the future.

Coal mine operators will be required to provide at least 3 years’ notice prior to closure. This is a similar requirement to the existing provisions for coal-fired power stations. Notification will also require coal mine operators to share information with the government on how they intend to support their workforce in the lead-up to and following the closure of the mine. These features are crucial to guarantee that workers are placed at the heart of the decision-making process. 

These new obligations will give the authority a better understanding of the timeline of mine closures, helping government, unions, and communities prepare.

Failure to report or prepare workforce plans will be enforced by the authority, including through financial penalties. 

To reinforce transparency and accountability, the legislation mandates that the authority report annually to the NSW Parliament. This key feature is designed to demonstrate the authority’s progress and performance. A further statutory review will be undertaken after 3 years of the legislation commencing to ensure the authority remains agile and responsive to the expected shifts in the coal sector.

Further targeted consultation will take place on the finalisation of regulations to support the objectives of the authority once the legislation passes the Parliament. The Future Jobs and Investment Authority is backed by a $27.3 million investment across four years to support its establishment and operations. In addition, the Future Jobs and Investment Fund will unlock more than $110 million to fund projects supported by the authority. 

More information about the Future Jobs and Investment Authority is available at www.nsw.gov.au/fjia.

Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos said, “Our coal regions have powered NSW for generations. Now, we’re investing in their future by helping workers gain new skills and seize opportunities in a growing, diversified economy.

“Coal mine workers are the backbone of regional coal communities. The authority ensures their needs are front and centre as we build a stronger future for coal-producing communities.

“Thank you to everyone who was part of our consultation process, and for your valuable input as we deliver this important election commitment. Getting this framework right is critical to ensuring coal regions have the support they need into the future

“The authority will drive investment and create new opportunities, supporting new jobs and industries that will sustain regional communities.”