Open Cuts to Land and Culture: Rural Community Engagement with Large-Scale Industrial Development

Connor, L., Albrecht, G.A. and Higginbotham, N.

Research program: Globalisation and International Development

The effects of coal mining and combustion on local communities have not been adequately researched even though export-oriented coal production is a key element of Australia's economy in the 21st century. Increasing numbers of rural Australian communities are affected by profound changes to climate, environment and social life associated with open-cut mining and coal-fired power stations. This research examines the impact of these developments in the Hunter Valley of NSW, from the point of view of local communities. The understandings we gain will offer government, corporate and community stakeholders the prospect of mutually beneficial outcomes in dealing with these impacts.