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HVO approval backs Hunter jobs and communities

Mining & Energy Union

The Mining and Energy Union has welcomed the NSW Independent Planning Commission’s approval of the Hunter Valley Operations Continuation Project, saying it gives more than 1,500 workers and their families greater certainty about their future.

MEU Northern Mining and NSW Energy District President Robin Williams said workers had made a powerful case for what HVO means to them and the wider Hunter.

“This is an enormous relief for HVO workers and their families. They stood up and told the Commission what these jobs mean to them, to local businesses and to towns across the Hunter,” Mr Williams said.

“After a long period of uncertainty, workers deserve clear information from HVO about the approval and what happens next.”

MEU General President Grahame Kelly said the Commission had made the right decision and thanked the Minns government for their support of the project.

“HVO is an established mine supporting more than 1,500 jobs. Its workers produce coal that customers want to buy, and those jobs support families, local businesses and the NSW economy. This project deserved approval, and the Commission has made the right call,” Mr Kelly said.

“Coal remains a backbone of the NSW economy. It and the people who work in the industry are critical to the state.  As long as there is demand for our coal, we should be selling it and making sure the workers and communities who produce it share in the benefits.

“Workers have waited a long time for this decision. Today they can finally look ahead with more confidence.”

Contact details:

Emily Holm - 0401 261 220