An important national economic resource.
Mining of black coal is one of Australia's most important industries, creating significant employment in regional Australia, fuel for low-cost electricity generation and steel-making, and vital export income. Australia is the world's biggest coal exporter, and black coal is Australia's largest export, worth more than $A50 billion in 2008-09 (See Coal Exports Details)
In addition to providing Australian consumers with affordable electricity, coal underpins the international competitiveness of the entire Australian economy.
Black coal mining in Australia is an increasingly sophisticated, hi-tech activity. Continuous improvements in mining technology, occupational health and safety and environmental performance have ensured that Australia is the world's most efficient and reliable producer of high quality thermal and coking coals for the international market.
The coal industry is supported by a strong equipment and services sector. Australia has world-class expertise in design, construction and operation of mines, transport systems and loading facilities. It also has expertise in training, technical support and project management.
An important social and regional resource.
Since European settlement in Australia the coal industry has played a leading role in the development of some of the country's largest regional centres and major ports, particularly in NSW and Queensland.
As those early mining centres become increasingly urbanised and the accessible deposits depleted, and as the transport infrastructure and mining methods have developed, companies have moved to develop the more remote deposits and, with them, the neighbouring rural communities.
Coal mining operations in an area bring major flow-on benefits to all sectors of the community. Inevitably, the district's population increases and medical, shopping, sporting and entertainment facilities are enhanced.
Additional jobs are created in ancillary industries like tyre and fuel suppliers and engineering works. Mining companies also contribute directly to improving road, rail and air services.
The Australian coal industry is also a major education sponsor, spending millions of dollars each year on training, scholarships and educational programmes and is a generous contributor to community projects.