Joint media release with NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, Net Zero Economy Authority CEO David Shankey, Member for the Hunter, Dan Repacholi, Muswellbrook Shire Council Mayor Jeffrey Drayton, and Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz.

The Albanese Government, through the Net Zero Economy Authority and with in-kind support from the New South Wales Government, has finalised the Funding Agreement to deliver master plans for two mine sites in the Hunter region: BHP’s Mt Arthur site in Muswellbrook and Glencore’s Macquarie Coal site near Lake Macquarie.

Announced during the 2025 election, this initiative underscores the Albanese Labor Government’s commitment to regional communities and to building a strong, resilient future for the Hunter.

This $5 million investment is a major step forward in supporting the Hunter’s transition and ensuring mining land re-use reflects the priorities of local communities and drives regional economic growth.

These master plans will pave the way for repurposing former mine sites into productive, sustainable assets, creating new opportunities for jobs, investment, and innovation across the region.

Local leaders have long called for this planning work, and the Albanese and Minns Governments have delivered. With some mines approaching planned closure, these master plans will ensure investment is ready to flow, helping the Hunter prepare for the next chapter.

By planning ahead, we are laying the foundation for thriving communities and a diversified economy that benefits generations to come.

Quotes attributed to Minister Tim Ayres, Minister for Industry and Innovation & Minister for Science: 

“For a decade under the Coalition, coal-fired power stations and mining sites announced closures and they did nothing. This funding changes that. It ensures investment is ready to flow and helps the Hunter prepare for its next chapter.  

“This funding is about more than planning- it’s about delivering a future for the Hunter that works for people, business, and the environment.

“Repurposing these sites will unlock new opportunities and ensure the region remains a powerhouse for generations to come.”

Quotes attributed to Paul Scully MP, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces: 

“As we continue the energy transformation it’s vital that we also adapt the land.  
 
“The funding for this pilot brings us another step closer to unlocking new jobs potential for these former mine sites in Muswellbrook and near Lake Macquarie. 
 
“Converting this land so it can continue to benefit the community supporting jobs and the local economy into the future is an important part of the puzzle as we shift to renewables.” 

Quotes attributed to David Shankey, CEO, Net Zero Economy Authority:

“By working closely with NSW government, local councils and industry, we’re creating a model that can be replicated across Australia to deliver economic resilience and new opportunities in mining communities.” 

“Through practical partnerships and evidence-based planning, we are building new development pathways that will drive industry growth and support jobs in regions like the Hunter.”

Quotes attributed to Member for the Hunter, Dan Repacholi:  

“This is a big win for the Hunter, the West Wallsend site has huge potential. This funding means we can start turning old mine land into new job opportunities for Lake Macquarie families.”  

“The Hunter has powered Australia for generations. These master plans make sure we keep powering ahead with new industries and long term jobs.”  

“This is not just paperwork. It is the groundwork for real projects, real investment and real jobs staying in the Hunter where they belong.”  

“As mines reach the end of their life, we cannot just leave these sites sitting there. This funding gets the ball rolling so the next chapter brings more work and more opportunities for local workers.”  

“We have listened to local mayors, workers and communities right across the Hunter. They know what is needed and we are backing them all the way.”  

Quotes attributed to Muswellbrook Shire Council Mayor Jeffrey Drayton:

“Muswellbrook has powered the state and the country for generations, and we’re determined to stay at the heart of the Hunter’s economic future.

This funding gives certainty to plan properly, take action on the record industrial closure Muswellbrook is facing, and make sure our community isn’t left waiting for action that should’ve happened years ago.

Muswellbrook is at the cutting edge of mining land use. The work now is to turn planning into the projects, jobs and investment our Shire deserves.  

The Mt Arthur pilot project is a priority for Muswellbrook and we’ll waste no time putting this welcome Federal support into planning that future.”

Quotes attributed to Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz:

“I’m very pleased that the Australian Government shares our excitement about the potential of these sites to transform and grow our city for the better. 

A master plan outlining the future reuse of the former Glencore West Wallsend coal mine won’t just help guide its future – it will provide a blueprint for how this can be applied to mine sites coming to the end of their lives right across NSW and Australia.”