Hunter business leaders call for mining action plan

Ampcontrol CEO and Managing Director Geoff Lillis has called on the NSW Government to develop a pro-active strategy for the mining industry.

 

The NSW Government already has six Industry Action Plans: professional services, manufacturing, education and research, the visitor economy, the digital economy, and the creative industries. Recognising the contribution of agriculture, the NSW Government is now developing an action plan for agriculture. 

 

The NSW Minerals Council and the Hunter Coal Industry Alliance are also calling for a more strategic approach to planning for mining, the state’s biggest export industry. Submissions have been made to the Deputy Premier Andrew Stoner outlining the economic contribution of mining and the need to recognise the potential of the industry to contribute to the state’s future growth. 

 

Speaking recently to around 250 people at the Hunter Business Chamber’s Mining Lunch in Newcastle, Mr Lillis said it was a difficult time for the industry and the government needed to act.

 

‘A strategic approach by government gives business the ability to plan and invest. That’s an important issue for us,’ he said.

 

‘We must have the certainty and the circumstances in which to invest. And government needs to be contemporary and flexible in that regard.’

 

Sparke Helmore Lawyers Partner and Hunter Business Chamber President Richard Anicich said mining was a significant part of the regional and state economy and should be recognised as such by governments.

 

‘The Hunter Business Chamber will continue to work with the NSW Minerals Council to ensure that more is done to support the sector and I hope the NSW Government will seriously consider the Chamber’s submission calling for a strategy for the coal industry’s future development,’ he said.