NSW refers two coal projects to independent review despite climate commission’s warning they violate emissions goals.

Two coal expansion projects in New South Wales—Chain Valley Colliery and Moolarben—have been referred to the state’s Independent Planning Commission despite a warning from the NSW Net Zero Commission that they conflict with climate laws and Paris Agreement goals. The commission found the projects undermine NSW’s emissions targets, with Moolarben potentially adding 200,000 tonnes of CO2 by 2030, a year when the state is projected to miss its target by 6.6 million tonnes. The state’s planning department reviewed the report in four days and proceeded without addressing the commission’s key recommendation. Critics say the process is flawed and demand a pause. A public hearing is scheduled for February 19, 2026.