HVO South Open Cut Coal Continuation Project

This is good for local families, jobs and the economy.
Please approve

I wish to formally register my support for the Hunter Valley Operations (HVO) North and South Continuation Projects. These proposals offer significant benefits to the Hunter Valley region, particularly through job retention, economic stability, and support for essential regional services.

Hunter Valley Operations encompasses two interconnected open-cut coal sites separated by the Hunter River, located northwest of Singleton. The continuation project proposes extending operations to 2050 at HVO North (currently approved until 2025) and 2045 at HVO South (currently approved until 2030). These extensions are important for maintaining the region’s economic and social fabric.

The projects will secure approximately 1,500 ongoing jobs, including apprenticeships and construction roles, while also preserving indirect support for local businesses, contractors, and service providers. In 2022 alone, HVO contributed over $1.5 billion to the economy, with long-term benefits valued at over $4 billion. Royalties and taxes generated will continue to fund essential infrastructure such as roads, schools, and healthcare, ensuring broader community benefits.

Importantly, the continuation projects involve no increase in approved annual production rates and will primarily re-mine previously disturbed areas. This approach minimises new environmental impacts while allowing for effective rehabilitation. I also recognise the effort HVO has made to respond meaningfully to community feedback, amending its proposal and adopting best practice in emission management and mitigation strategies.

In summary, I support the continuation of HVO North to 2050 and HVO South to 2045 because they preserve jobs, maintain economic stability, support community services, and demonstrate a responsible approach to environmental management.

I respectfully request that the proposal be approved and encourage continued monitoring, rehabilitation, and innovation in emissions reduction.

I honestly don’t think the people in the hunter and NSW understand the business the coal sector creates and the amount of other business at are supported by the companies like HVO and their employees.

I strongly support the proposed continuation of mining operations at HVO South (and HVO North). For several decades, the Hunter Valley Operations mine has been instrumental in shaping the socio-economic landscape at local and regional levels, while also making significant contributions to the state and national economies. Approving this continuation project is essential not only for sustaining direct employment for the current workforce but also for generating substantial economic activity that benefits surrounding local government areas and the broader Hunter Region, as well as New South Wales and Australia as a whole. The ongoing operations at HVO will bolster job security, stimulate local businesses, and foster positive growth within the regional community, ensuring that it continues to thrive economically and socially.

I believe it is in the best interests of the Country and local community

Submission in Support of Extension for HVO South

I am writing in support of granting an extension for HVO South due to the significant and ongoing benefits the project provides to our economy, local communities, and employment landscape. HVO South is more than just an operational facility—it is a critical driver of regional development, environmental progress, and social stability.

1. Economic Impact

HVO South plays a major role in supporting both the local and national economy. Through the sustainable production of renewable fuels, it reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels and strengthens our domestic energy resilience. It also supports downstream industries including transport, logistics, and construction—generating economic activity that benefits a wide range of sectors.

The continued operation of HVO South ensures ongoing investment in infrastructure and technology, which has a multiplier effect across the region. Extending the project will allow the facility to meet increasing demand for renewable energy, contributing directly to our national sustainability and energy security goals.

2. Job Creation and Skills Development

The facility is a key local employer, providing high-quality, stable jobs to hundreds of individuals. These include roles in operations, engineering, administration, safety, and environmental compliance. Additionally, HVO South supports a broad network of indirect jobs through contractors, suppliers, and service providers.

Many of these positions require specialized skills, and the project contributes to workforce development through training programs, apprenticeships, and local upskilling initiatives. Extending the life of the project ensures continuity for these workers and continued investment in building future-ready, skilled labor.

3. Community Benefits

HVO South is deeply embedded in the surrounding communities, providing direct and indirect benefits that go beyond employment. Local businesses—from retail to hospitality—rely on the spending power of workers and the economic activity generated by the facility. The project also contributes to community programs, partnerships with local schools, and infrastructure improvements.

Additionally, the project’s environmental focus resonates with community values, offering a model of industrial development that is both responsible and forward-looking. By converting waste materials into renewable fuel, HVO South reduces greenhouse gas emissions and supports our broader environmental targets.


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Conclusion

An extension of HVO South is not just a practical decision—it is a strategic one. It secures ongoing economic contributions, supports community resilience, and protects quality jobs in a region that benefits greatly from this project. Denying this extension could put at risk the stability and progress that has been hard-earned by workers, businesses, and community stakeholders alike.

For these reasons, I strongly urge the relevant authorities to approve the extension of HVO South and ensure its continued contribution to a sustainable, prosperous future.

I have worked at HVO for 15 years and can see the wealth and employment it brings to the community. This continuation Project is a must for the future of the area.

I strongly support the approval of this new mine. The project will deliver significant benefits for the local community, including direct employment, apprenticeships, and business opportunities for local suppliers. Importantly, the proponent has committed to responsible environmental management and rehabilitation, ensuring that the project balances economic growth with sustainability.

The Hunter region will benefit from this project approval providing sustained financial input into the local and NSW economies.

I work at HVO and would like to continue working there for as long as possible. With two young children and another on the way I need the continuation projects approval so I can provide for my growing family.