The New South Wales Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is cracking down on dust pollution from Hunter region mines with its annual “Bust the Dust” campaign, which is now in its sixth year. The campaign, which focuses on protecting local air quality, returns this spring with significantly higher penalties for mines that fail to comply with their license conditions.
The stricter fines are a result of new laws that took effect in 2024. A mine now faces a $30,000 penalty for a first offense, with subsequent breaches costing $45,000. EPA Operations Officers will be on high alert during the campaign, conducting roadside surveillance, unannounced inspections, and using drones to monitor dust levels.
David Gathercole, NSW EPA Director of Operations, acknowledged the community’s desire for stronger regulation of open-cut mines.
“While we regulate dust emissions year-round, regional air quality monitoring shows spring is a peak time for particle pollution,” Gathercole said.
“The Bust the Dust campaign is a timely reminder for operators to have the right practices in place before we come knocking.”
Gathercole emphasized that mines can prevent dust pollution by improving surveillance, increasing reporting, and using water on roads and stockpiles. He also noted that mines should consider halting work during dry and windy conditions.
The EPA’s actions follow a recent case involving Warkworth Mining in Mount Thorley, which was found to have operational failures during the 2023 campaign. The company entered into a legally binding agreement to improve its dust management and was required to pay $120,000 to a local environmental rehabilitation project.
While last year’s campaign saw all 11 inspected mines managing dust appropriately, the EPA is urging community members to remain vigilant. Residents can report concerns about dust emissions by calling the Environment Line at 131 555 or emailing info@epa.nsw.gov.au.
