Surge in Employment: Mining Sector in NSW Reaches Unprecedented Job Levels
In the current year, the latest data from Coal Services, NSW’s specialized health and safety scheme, reveals that coal mining production in NSW has employed a total of 24,984 individuals.
The data indicates the highest outcome recorded since June 2012, with the western region of NSW witnessing an addition of over 300 coal mining jobs. Furthermore, there has been an upsurge in the southern region, resulting in the second-highest number of local coal mining employees at 3397.
The Hunter region, NSW’s most extensive coal mining area, displayed a combined total of 14,584 positions, marking the second-highest count the region has experienced since June 2014. Conversely, the Gunnedah region experienced a minor decline following its all-time record in April, with 3253 employees.
According to Stephen Galilee, the CEO of the NSW Minerals Council, the rise in coal mining employment within NSW is indicative of the enduring significance and robustness of the state’s coal industry.
“The increase in the count of individuals employed in coal mining positions throughout NSW in recent times underscores the continued significance of the NSW coal mining sector for local communities and the state’s economy. This also underscores the importance of providing adequate support to mining communities,” remarked Galilee.
“The robust contribution of the coal industry is indicative of the broader expansion observed across the entirety of the mining sector in NSW, encompassing metals mining as well. Employment in metals mining is also approaching record highs, with almost 8,000 individuals engaged in the NSW metals mining sector, as per the most recent annual NSW Mining Industry Expenditure Impact Survey,” noted Galilee.
“These positions play a crucial role in sustaining local communities and significantly contribute to the economic vitality of the NSW region. Anticipated growth in demand for our metals, critical minerals, and premium-grade coal over the next ten years underscores the importance of enacting appropriate policies to secure enduring mining investments and employment opportunities for the years ahead,” emphasized Galilee.