Vickery Coal Mine Extension Progresses Through NSW Approval Process
Whitehaven Coal's Vickery Extension Project continues to advance through the NSW planning approval process. The project involves the extension of open-cut mining operations at the Vickery Coal Mine, located approximately 25 km north of Gunnedah in the Gunnedah Coal Basin, along with associated coal handling and preparation plant, train load-out facility and rail spur line.
Project Details
- Development consent: SSD-7480 granted by the NSW Independent Planning Commission on 12 August 2020, with subsequent modifications in August and October 2025
- New mining lease: ML1895 granted on 6 April 2026 for a 21-year term through 2047, covering 46.43 hectares
- EPBC approval: Federal approval under EPBC 2016/7649, with annual compliance reporting ongoing
- Location: Narrabri Shire and Gunnedah Shire, approximately 15 km south-east of Boggabri
Operational Infrastructure
The Vickery Extension Project encompasses an integrated mining operation with coal transported via approved haulage routes to the Whitehaven CHPP, with road haulage limits of 3.5 million tonnes of ROM coal per financial year during current phases. The project includes provisions for a Kamilaroi Highway overpass and Project Rail Spur to manage cumulative haulage impacts with the adjacent Tarrawonga Coal Project.
Forward Program
Whitehaven Coal Mining Limited has submitted a forward program covering January 2026 to December 2028, outlining rehabilitation management and operational plans. The project is expected to significantly increase Whitehaven's production capacity and extend mine life in the Gunnedah Basin. The Vickery mine produces high-quality thermal and semi-soft coking coal suitable for export markets. Environmental monitoring and compliance continue under both NSW state and Federal EPBC Act requirements.
