NSW to ban new coalmines – but will allow existing ones to get even bigger

Minns Labor government criticised over strategy as no new mines have been proposed for several yearsFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastThe New South Wales government will continue to green-light coalmine expansions, effectively rejecting a warning from its climate agency that approving new developments would be inconsistent with the state’s legislated emissions targets.Releasing a statement on the coal industry’s future, the Labor government said it would no longer consider proposals for “standalone greenfield coalmines” on undeveloped sites. But it would continue to allow expansions and time extensions at existing mines. Continue reading...