Boggabri Coalmine life extendeduntil end of 2040

Boggabri Coal has been granted state government approval to extend its mine life until the end of 2040.

The determination was published last week and allows the company to recover an additional 25 million tonnes of total coal production. Direct employment for an average of 740 full-time equivalent workers will also continue for a further four years.

In its decision, the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure acknowledged that 84.48ha of native vegetation would need to be cleared, and that the project would generate more greenhouse gas emissions.

“Overall, the department considers that the impacts have been minimised where reasonable and practicable, the residual biodiversity impacts can be offset, and the remaining residual impacts can be managed through the existing and proposed conditions of consent,” the determination read.

“The department also considers that the modification would result in an orderly and efficient extension of an existing approved mining operation and ensure the continuation of the social and economic benefits, including employment, local expenditure and royalties for the state.

“Accordingly, on balance the department considers the modification is in the public interest and can be approved.”

During the public exhibition period about the development, 56 unique submissions were received.

The assessment report noted that 11 had been received from special interest groups and 45 from general members of the public.

“Of these, 16 submissions objected to the modification, 38 supported it and four provided comments,” the report read.

Concerns raised about the mine modification included impacts to threatened species, surface water and groundwater management, and increases in greenhouse gas emissions.

Objecting to the development, People for the Plains expressed alarm at the clearing of almost 85ha of vegetation, saying it would affect at least two threatened plant species and more than 15 threatened animal species: “Including iconic fauna such as the koala and spotted-tailed quoll, a variety of woodland birds and bats, as well as the critically endangered Regent Honeyeater and Swift Parrot,” the group’s submission read.

“The omission of the Swift Parrot from the assessment is particularly alarming.

“This species has been recorded in Leard State Forest in 2012, 2014, 2022, and 2023, and the forest provides important foraging habitat.

“Cumulatively, around 3,800ha of native vegetation have already been lost due to mining developments at Boggabri, Tarrawonga, and Maules Creek.

“The additional loss of 85ha under MOD 10 would further erode critical habitat, posing a serious threat to the long-term survival of the Swift Parrot and risking irreversible damage to biodiversity in the region.”

The group also voiced concern with potential groundwater impacts as well as the project’s incompatibility with NSW’s legislated climate targets.

Submissions in support of the project noted that the modification would provide ongoing employment, benefits to the local economy and ongoing investment in community initiatives and local infrastructure.

Boggabri business owner Joanne Bell said the continued support of Boggabri Coal, which chose to work with local businesses, has helped many traders keep their doors open.

“Their contribution goes beyond business. Boggabri Coal have consistently invested in our community, providing vital financial support for local events and infrastructure improvements,” she said in her submission.

“These efforts not only enhance the quality of life in Boggabri but also give our town a stronger sense of security and optimism for the future.

“The employment opportunities created by Boggabri Coal have had a ripple effect across our region.

“With more families settling here and contractors spending within the community, there’s been a significant boost to the local economy.”