Barwon property owners affected by coal mine subsidence will have access to a fairer and more efficient compensation scheme following the passage of the Coal Mine Subsidence Compensation Bill 2017 in NSW Parliament this month.
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Mine subsidence refers to the movements and vibrations of the ground because of underground coal mining. The reforms arise from a comprehensive review of the current Act, and follow significant industry consultation over the last 12 months.
Key changes to the Act include: Coal mine operators in NSW will be directly accountable for subsidence damage they cause.
Subsidence Advisory NSW, the peak regulatory body for mine subsidence compensation, will establish a new case management system
All claims will be lodged with SA NSW through a new ePortal allowing claimants to manage the process from start to finish.
A panel of independent expert assessors will assess all claims and strict timeframes will apply to process claims and compensate affected property owners.
These new laws will benefit property owners by establishing a fairer and more efficient compensation scheme. SA NSW will have the power to initiate disciplinary action against coal mine operators that are not doing the right thing by claimants.
SA NSW will be hosting information sessions across NSW in late 2017. Further information is available at www.subsidenceadvisory.nsw.gov.au
WINNERS PHOTO COMPETITION
The winners of the 2017 Life and Light Photo Competition were announced at the Western Landcare Forum’s gala dinner, recently held in Broken Hill.
Congratulations to winners from the Barwon Electorate:
- Colour open – “Storm rolling in” by Annalee Monds – Goodooga
- Colour secondary student – “Spring Flowers” by Demi Crampton - Broken Hill
- Colour primary student – “Work horse” by Polly Turnbull – Brewarrina
- Black and white secondary – “Dusty Dogs” by Georgia Bragg – Bourke
- Black and white primary – “Squeak” by Polly Turnbull - Brewarrina
OUT AND ABOUT
This week I will be out in the electorate. I am particularly excited to be visiting Baradine to meet with the Moorambilla Voices and the Baradine community.
THUMBS UP
Congratulations to Gordon Hill who received a Rotary NSW Emergency Services Community Award – NSW Rural Fire Service Officer of the Year!
This award is richly deserved and a testament to the outstanding commitment Gordon has shown to the people of Cobar and Western NSW.
