Hunter communities invited to help shape future opportunities at former mine sites
Communities across the Hunter are invited to have their say on the draft master plans for the Mt Arthur Coal Mine site in Muswellbrook and the Macquarie Coal Complex within the Lake Macquarie LGA.
The draft master plans aim to unlock the long-term potential of former mine sites to support new industries, attract investment and create jobs. These plans were developed by the NSW Government in collaboration with local councils, site owners, and the Net Zero Economy Authority (NZEA).
The NZEA commissioned independent research to develop an evidence-based understanding of how post-closure outcomes are shaped for communities and regions.
Supporting industrial diversification in the Hunter
Implementing a 2025 Australian Government $5m election commitment, alongside in-kind NSW Government support, the draft master plans aim to repurpose former mining land to deliver new opportunities in the Hunter.
Federal Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Tim Ayres said, 'These masterplans are about attracting new industries, creating high-quality local jobs and cementing the region as a major hub for manufacturing and innovation powering Australia’s economic resilience for decades to come.'
The 2 draft master plans identify more than 1,100 hectares of land for industrial development that could create more than 7,000 local jobs. By building on the Hunter's existing strengths, the plans aim to support growth of emerging industries, such as renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, low carbon liquid fuels and the circular economy.
NZEA CEO David Shankey said, 'Building new diversified industrial engines of growth in the Hunter will depend on coordination to align land use planning, infrastructure, workforce needs, investment and industry opportunity. Local communities are encouraged to shape this important work, which establish the foundations for the future and clearer pathways to future development of the sites.'
Working together for the Hunter
This project demonstrates the value of collaboration between governments, local councils, industry and communities to support economic diversification in coal-producing regions. It ensures local communities have a voice in shaping the future of these sites. 'Communities that have powered Australia's economy for generations should have a genuine say in what comes next. These master plans create a practical way for local knowledge and perspectives to shape the region’s economic opportunities and are an important milestone in planning for the Hunter’s future,' said Mr Shankey.
Have your say
Public consultation closes on 11 August 2026, and includes community drop-in sessions, stakeholder meetings, and engagement with First Nations communities.
Feedback received will inform the final master plans, expected to be completed by November 2026.
To view the proposals and have your say, visit the NSW Government’s website for Mt Arthur Mine or Macquarie Coal Complex.