Moolarben Coal Mine Expansion Faces Environmental Opposition and Regulatory Review

The Moolarben coal mine is proposing an expansion near Mudgee, which would extend the existing OC3 open-cut pit and establish four new pits 40 kilometers north of Mudgee. The project plans to extract approximately 30 million tonnes of coal. Environmental groups are calling for the rejection of the expansion, arguing that changes to the project do not address concerns about its impact on wildlife and water.

The proposed extension would disturb 675 hectares, including 480 hectares of native vegetation and 113 hectares of koala habitat. The NSW Independent Planning Commission announced a public hearing for the project, following a postponement to allow Yancoal to amend its application. Critics warn that the cumulative impact of mining across the region remains a major concern.