Mining Australia reported that NSW Government will introduce a USD 10 million industry assistance package for mines in the Gunnedah and Western Coalfields.

The report quoted Mr Ian Macdonald minister for Mineral Resources as saying that "This USD 10 million assistance package will protect more than 2,000 direct jobs in the Western and Gunnedah coalfields from the global recession, which is affecting every industry and business in this country. The stimulus package will assist those exporting from the Gunnedah and Western Coalfields, and will assist with costs of getting product to port. Specifically USD 10 million will be spent each year for 2 years."

According to Mr MacDonald, the package will help the industry take advantage of export opportunities. He said that "Now more than ever, it is essential that we sustain our important mining industry which provides thousands of jobs to rural communities. Coal is our State's top export in value terms, USD 8.2 billion in 07/08 and the global economic recession is impacting on the viability of some regional coal mines.”

Member for Mr Bathurst Gerard Martin welcomed the package, which will benefit regional communities in Western NSW. He said that "This is a great package that will protect jobs in the Western coalfields including Lithgow and Ulan."

(Sourced from Miningaustralia.com)