After a ten year campaign the NSW State Government announced in May 2010, they could NOT proceed with their plans to operate an open cut coal mine. However, the decision only referred to an open cut mine. NOT an underground mine. In February 2012, Bickham Coal Company announced plans to investigate underground mining.

The coal mined in the Hunter Valley poses serious risks not only for the health and well being of local communities, but also for communities where Hunter Valley coal is burned.

The Hunter Estuary Wetlands is also adjacent to the world's largest coal port, and the threat of expansion of the existing coal terminals puts the future of this precious place at ever-increasing risk... Over the next two days, three Planning Commissioners visit our town to make a decision about whether another coal terminal should be approved for Newcastle.

In response to news reports or events that are linked to climate change, we will be immediately getting out on the street, alone or in groups, to demand swift and decisive response. Using an SMS alert list and social media, we will find each other and express our will to change our ways, stop burning coal and driving climate change. Using the hashtag #ThisIsSerious

The City of Newcastle Council voted last night to focus investments away from environmentally and socially destructive entities, including Australia’s Big Four Banks. With a total investment portfolio of $270 million, the groundbreaking move makes Newcastle the fourth, and largest Council in New South Wales, and the seventh in the country to divest.