Hunter Jobs Alliance says new law on coal transition gives hope

The Future Jobs and Investment Authority (FJIA) Bill 2025 passed both NSW houses on October 20.

According to the Hunter Jobs Alliance (HJA), it is a major achievement and testimony to the many organisations and individuals that have campaigned over five years to secure a better future for workers, communities and the environment across NSW’s four coal regions.

HJA started with publishing Building for the Future: A ‘Hunter Valley Authority’ to secure our region’s prosperity in June 2021, which made the case for a “dedicated regional authority to support workers, diversify our economy and secure the Hunter’s future beyond coal”.

Since then, it has worked to get NSW Labor to commit to establishing a Transition Authority in its policy platform before the March election next year.

It is seeking 10 amendments to strengthen the law, particularly workforce transition planning obligations for coal companies.

HJA singled out the Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union for ���critical political and strategic support in advancing the proposal”, as well as Hunter Renewal, which championed this reform long before HJA’s involvement.

It said the new law establishes a dedicated public authority, and funds to support economic diversification, attract new industries and create jobs across NSW’s four coal regions.

“Importantly, it will also require coal mine owners to develop workforce transition plans to support workers affected by mine closures. This represents a significant shift from the current system, where coal companies have had limited enforceable responsibilities to prepare workers and communities for closure.”

HJA said its next job is to ensure the regulations are “developed and finalised before the caretaker period” in the lead-up to the March election next year.

“These must establish meaningful minimum standards for workforce transition plans, including paid retraining, paid training leave, career and financial advice, and assistance securing new employment.”

HJA is also seeking at least $150 million each year for the Future Jobs and Investment Fund, up from the current $22.5 million a year. “Securing this as a budget commitment ahead of the March 2027 election will be a key focus.”

HJA said its member organisations and everyone who has contributed to this campaign “demonstrates what can be accomplished when unions, environmental organisations, community groups, business and industry work together towards a shared vision for the future of the Hunter and NSW’s other coal regions”.