Climate Council Media Release

IN A DAMAGING MOVE, the Albanese Government has approved three massive coal mine extensions in New South Wales, locking in decades more climate pollution that “our children will not forgive” says the Climate Council.

The federal government has approved three coal mine extensions in the Hunter Valley: Whitehaven’s Narrabri Stage 3 Expansion, MACH Energy’s Mount Pleasant Optimisation, and Glencore and Yancoal’s Ashton-Ravensworth Extension.

Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie said: “At the midway point of the crucial decade for climate action, it’s shocking that 7 coal mines have been given the green light since Labor has come to power. Every decision like this betrays future generations. Our children will not forgive us for locking in more climate pollution for decades to come.

“These projects are forecast to pump out over a billion tonnes of pollution until 2048 – more than double Australia’s total annual emissions. Mount Pleasant will become Australia’s largest black coal mine, dwarfing Adani, while Narrabri could add 259 million tonnes of pollution and destroy 500 hectares of critical koala habitat.

“Under Labor, Australia is making strong progress on clean energy, but approving coal projects undermines our momentum. They can’t have it both ways – continuing to invest in fossil fuels pours more petrol on the out-of-control fire that is the climate crisis.

“Approving polluting coal mines undermines the government’s reputation as the world shines a spotlight on climate and environmental leadership at the upcoming Global Nature Positive Summit. It’s astonishing that Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek will represent Australia on the global stage after green-lighting coal mines, a contradiction that harms Australia’s credibility on nature and climate.

“Climate scientists could not be more clear; coal, oil and gas are causing immense harm and this will only get worse if we do not stop burning them. Australia must not approve new coal, oil and gas projects. If the government fails to listen to this advice, future generations will pay the price.”