Maules Creek Continuation Project

I am writing to express my strong support for the proposed Maules Creek Mine to extend and continue its operations.
I am employed by a company based in Newcastle that has been contracting to Maules Creek for several years. My involvement with the mine dates back to its early construction phase, and I have consistently experienced positive, professional engagement with the mine’s employees and the broader community.
The continuation of Maules Creek operations will help safeguard approximately 940 jobs and support many more through indirect employment and procurement. This ongoing activity will significantly contribute to maintaining economic stability across north-western NSW. Importantly, the mine's influence extends well beyond the immediate region, supporting businesses like mine based in other parts of the state. It creates valuable supply chain opportunities and helps distribute economic benefits more broadly across NSW.
From a personal perspective, my regular travel to the area has allowed me to share it with friends and colleagues, many of whom would not otherwise have visited. In this way, the mine contributes to increasing regional exposure and promoting tourism, even in an indirect way.
Having worked on environmental impact statements (EIS) for other projects across the industry, I believe the EIS prepared for the Maules Creek Extension demonstrates robust environmental planning. It includes comprehensive measures to mitigate potential impacts and ensure continued environmental stewardship.
Whitehaven has also demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting local communities, having invested millions in community sponsorships and initiatives. Additionally, the company continues to deliver substantial economic value to both NSW and Australia — contributing over $1.5 billion in taxes and royalties in FY24 alone.
For these reasons, I fully support the Maules Creek Mine Extension and urge its approval.

I am writing to express my strong support for the Maules Creek Continuation Project.
As an environmental consultant in the area of impacts from blasting with over 25 years of experience, I believe this project has strong merit and should be approved. My support is based on the following key points:
1. Ongoing Economic Benefit to the Region
Whitehaven Coal is a major employer in the Gunnedah–Narrabri region, offering high-quality job opportunities to local residents and creating flow-on benefits for local businesses. The continuation of the Maules Creek operation will ensure sustained economic activity and regional investment over the coming years. It plays a pivotal role in the social and economic wellbeing of the local community.
2. Commitment to Environmental Rehabilitation
Australia’s environmental regulations impose stringent standards for land rehabilitation, and Whitehaven has a strong track record in this area. I have confidence that the project area will be fully rehabilitated to a high standard once mining is complete, as per regulatory requirements.
3. Energy Diversification and National Security.
I believe in the importance of a genuinely diversified energy mix to support Australia’s long-term energy security. This mix should draw on a range of sources — including coal, gas, nuclear, solar, and wind — each playing a critical role in ensuring a stable, reliable, and resilient energy system. Relying too heavily on any single energy source carries significant risks; instead, a balanced and integrated approach is essential to meet future energy demands while maintaining affordability and supply security. Recent global events have highlighted the risks of relying too heavily on a single energy source — whether that be green energy alone or gas alone — as evidenced by the energy crisis that impacted the European Union since 2022. Continued investment in coal projects is necessary to ensure we maintain a reliable and resilient energy supply during the energy transition.
For the above reasons, I fully support the Maules Creek Continuation Project and recommend its approval.

YMG Aboriginal Corporation is a traditional owner group of the Guyinbaraay clan of the Gomeroi that is responsible for country that the Maules Creek Continuation Project is earmarked to be developed.
YMG has a long history of co-operative and collaborative interactions with Whitehaven and our organisation is very supportive of this project, as we see this project as a tangible opportunity to continue our relationship with Whitehaven and the mining industry. We see these projects as a real opportunity for the Aboriginal communities that surrounds this development that provide real and positive change for our communities.
YMG currently employs and has work programs with many of the Mining companies that operate in the Gunnedah basin. We currently employs 8-10 staff that predominately work on country in archaeology, sites management regenerative and conservation projects that has seen unparalleled access to country for all Aboriginal people not just traditional owners.
YMG in our dealings with Whitehaven and other companies have found our interactions professional, responsive and respectful and we are happy to continue this interactions into the future.
YMG is a leader in the Gunnedah community in relation to traditional culture and caring for country. YMG representatives and also sits and contributes to many other organisations that represent the Gunnedah Aboriginal community such as the Red Chief Local Aboriginal Land Council, the Boonalla Aboriginal Area co management committee with NSW Parks and Wildlife.
YMG is fully aware and is making empowered decisions to engage with partners like Whitehaven to drive self determination for our community.

I support this project as it will provide direct and indirect work to my community for years to come and there are no other majoy employment opportunities in this area.
I want my friends/family and others to be able to stay in this area and employed for many years.

This will be good for the local community by way off work for locals and will support local company's in the area for the future

I have lived near the Whitehaven Maules Creek coal mine.
I object to the continuation of this project. The animals & plants in this area are exceptionally rare & irreplaceable by using offsets.
The local Gomeroi community, whom I have worked with still have deep ties with the Leard forest despite the toxic coal mine already taking up most of the forest - Government authorities should have the decency and respect to leave at least some of this remnant white box bushland which has nurtured their community for thousands upon thousands of years.
The existing coal mine has had extremely bad and divisive effects on the local farming community, bribing some with facility funding so that they accept the damage by the mines while lowering the water table, fouling the creeks and sending toxic blast fumes across other farms. Compensation has been patchy & inadequate. Nothing can compensate for the damage to children's health and the lack of agricultural production in this area which used to be so fertile.
The massive Maules Creek coal mine has also had terrible effects on the mental health of many of my farming friends because of its destructive & divisive nature & the atmosphere of fear & bullying from the mine staff & security driving the previously peaceful country roads at breakneck speeds.
Coal is a product of the last two centuries. With the plethora of new technologies available for power & manufacturing it is no longer necessary to maintain our civilisations with a product this toxic.
Anthropogenic climate change is no figment of a "green" imagination. It is accepted by a consensus of the world's top scientists & responsible governments. If one is not going to claim the world is flat or the moon landing was faked, surely NASA should be the final arbiter of climate science, they have a good view of our unique planet. https://climate.nasa.gov/evidence/
Whitehaven won the battle of establishing Maules Creek coal mine against all decency, science and common sense, it's high time that our governance bodies preserve what is left & shut this monstrosity down.

Whitehaven are overestimating the project’s financial benefit to the state by:
a) inflating anticipated thermal coal prices
b) basing their carbon costs (their liability for cost of emissions to the NSW community) on an inappropriate model rather than the shadow carbon price published by NSW Treasury framework which should be used.

More than 100 incidences creating almost $2M in fines, due to Whitehaven Coal breaching environmental laws

With regard to the Swift Parrots coming north for winter is at 'Near extinct parrot 'under threat' from mining project,' Junee Southern Cross, 4 August 2025

To Whom It May Concern,

I wish to submit this formal objection to the proposed continuation and expansion of Whitehaven Coal’s Maules Creek Project on the following grounds:

1. Poor Treatment of Employees and Erosion of Workforce Trust

Whitehaven Coal has consistently demonstrated a disregard for the fair treatment and welfare of its workforce. Most recently, the company was subject to a leave audit which exposed significant payroll and administrative failures. This resulted in hundreds of workers being left with substantial negative leave balances — a direct consequence of Whitehaven’s own system errors. Instead of immediately rectifying these mistakes and taking accountability, the burden was placed unfairly on workers. This has caused widespread financial distress and further eroded trust in Whitehaven’s internal systems and management.

Such treatment of employees raises serious ethical and operational concerns, and should factor heavily into any decision to permit further expansion of the company’s operations.

2. Undermining Local Workforce Opportunities

Despite operating in a regional community, Whitehaven continues to implement rosters and employment structures that favour fly-in-fly-out (FIFO) workers over the development and retention of a local workforce. These rosters often place undue pressure on permanent employees, limit flexibility, and reduce opportunities for stable, long-term local employment.

This practice undermines the social and economic fabric of local communities, depriving them of the long-term benefits of employment and regional investment that should come from such large-scale mining operations.

3. Unsuitability for Project Continuation

Given Whitehaven’s documented failures in both workforce management and community engagement, it is difficult to justify granting approval for a continuation of its operations at Maules Creek. Allowing further development would send the message that poor corporate conduct — particularly towards workers and local communities — carries no consequence.

The continuation of this project should not proceed unless and until Whitehaven can demonstrate:
• Full accountability and compensation for workers impacted by the recent leave audit;
• A credible, transparent plan to prioritise and protect local employment;
• Independent oversight of future workforce relations and compliance systems.

In light of the above, I strongly oppose the approval of the Maules Creek Continuation Project. Communities and workers deserve better than to be left bearing the cost of corporate mismanagement and short-sighted employment practices.

The continuation of the Maules Creek coal mine represents a vital opportunity for sustained economic growth, regional development, and community stability. The below is a summary of the key benefits of the project brings to the local area and broader region, and why its ongoing operation is essential.
1. Economic Contribution
The coal mine is a cornerstone of the local economy, providing:
• Direct employment for hundreds of workers, many of whom are local residents.
• Indirect employment through supply chains, contractors, and service providers.
• Royalties and taxes that contribute significantly to state and federal revenues, supporting public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
2. Community Development
The mine company has a strong track record of investing in the community through:
• Local sponsorships and grants for schools, sports clubs, and community groups.
• Training and education programs that upskill workers and prepare youth for future employment.
3. Energy Security
Coal remains a critical component of Australia’s energy mix. The mine contributes to:
• Reliable baseload power, supporting grid stability and energy affordability.
• Export markets, strengthening Australia’s trade relationships and economic resilience.
4. Environmental Management
The project operates under strict environmental regulations and has implemented:
• Rehabilitation plans to restore land post-mining.
• Water and air quality monitoring to ensure compliance and protect ecosystems.
• Carbon reduction initiatives, including investment in cleaner technologies and offset programs.
Conclusion
The continuation of the Maules Creek coal mine is not just about resource extraction—it’s about sustaining livelihoods, supporting regional development, and ensuring energy security. With responsible management and community engagement, the project can continue to deliver significant value while aligning with broader environmental and economic goals.

Continue to provide jobs for people in the surrounding community

It makes a lot of local to work and provide needs for their families

• Approximately 940 ongoing jobs
• Approximately 70% of employees are locally-based
• Approximately $160m paid to the Maules Creek Mine workforce in FY 24
• $200m+ spent with local businesses and suppliers in FY24
• Maules Creek Mine contributed $168 million in royalties to the NSW Government in FY24
• Approximately 14% of Maules Creek Mine employees identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander

Please find attached a letter in support of the Maules Creek extension project.

Continued employment and growth for the region.

Examining a map reveals that this forest is the only significant forest of its type between Mt Kaputar National Park and the Warrumbungle National Park. Last refuge for endangered flora and fauna. Too precious to be lost forever.

Please see attached letter for reasoning for supporting this project.

I object to more destruction and removal of trees and habitat for native animals

Please see attached PDF. Thank you.

I am writing to express my strong support for the Maules Creek Continuation Project, which seeks to extend the life of the Maules Creek Mine to 2044.

Mining continues to be a cornerstone of regional prosperity in New South Wales, and the Maules Creek Mine is a prime example of how responsible mining can drive local economies, create long-term employment opportunities, and support regional communities. With approximately 940 ongoing jobs and around 70% of the workforce drawn from the local area, the mine is a vital source of stability and income for countless families.

Beyond direct employment, the mine contributes significantly to local businesses and suppliers, with over $200 million spent in FY24 alone. This economic activity underpins many other sectors and keeps money circulating in the North West NSW region. The $168 million in royalties paid to the NSW Government in FY24 further demonstrates the mine's contribution to public infrastructure and services that benefit the wider community.

Importantly, Maules Creek also plays a role in supporting diversity and inclusion, with approximately 14% of employees identifying as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. This demonstrates a meaningful commitment to creating opportunities for all Australians.

The continuation of mining activities will utilise the existing infrastructure, meaning the environmental footprint of expansion is minimised while economic and social benefits are maintained. The mine supports global energy security while helping to meet demand in an orderly and sustainable way.

In conclusion, the Maules Creek Mine is a vital asset to the region and the state. I fully support the continuation of this project and urge the Department of Planning to approve the application to extend its operations.