Clarence Modification 11

About Clarence Colliery

Clarence Colliery is an existing underground coal mine located approximately 10 km east of Lithgow and is accessible via Chifley Road. Clarence Colliery is managed by Clarence Colliery Pty Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Centennial Coal Company Pty Limited (Centennial Coal).

Clarence Colliery operates under three separate development consents:

  • IRM.76.GE - development consent issued in 1976 by the then Blaxland Shire Council (now Lithgow City Council)
  • DA 174/93 - development consent issued in 1994 by Lithgow City Council 
  • DA504-00 - State significant development (SSD) consent issued in 2005 by the then Minister for Planning.
     

Key Facts

  • Clarence Colliery commenced mining in 1979 and produces high quality thermal coal that is supplied to both export and domestic markets.
  • Mining methods at Clarence Colliery are bord and pillar mining with both first workings and partial extraction methods (second workings). 
  • Clarence Colliery is approved to extract up to 3 million tonnes of coal per year.
  • Clarence Colliery employs approximately 300 full-time employees.
  • Clarence Colliery operates 24 hours, 7 days a week. 

Clarence Modification 11 

Centennial Coal has submitted a modification (Mod 11) to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI).

The proposed modification seeks to extend the life of mining operations at Clarence Colliery from 31 December 2026 for five years until 31 December 2031 and to amend DA 504-00, Schedule 2, Condition 7AA, to align with the extension to mine life.

DPHI has placed Clarence Modification 11 on public exhibition from 5 February to 19 February 2026.

The progress can be viewed at the link to DPHI Major Projects Portal:
https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects/projects/modification-11-time-extension

Key Features of the Project

Coal production: Production rate of up to 3 Mtpa

Mining methods: Bord and pillar mining using both first workings and partial extraction second workings. Low‑impact mine design that minimises subsidence and protects surface environments.

Employment: Secures approximately 300 FTE jobs, with approval for up to 400 FTE. Supports ongoing local employment and skills retention in the Lithgow region. Provides indirect jobs across supply chains, contractors and local service providers.

Project life: Proposed extension: five additional years, to 31 December 2031. Enables efficient extraction of remaining approved coal reserves.

Economic contribution: Strong positive economic impact for NSW and the Lithgow LGA. Approx. $149 million net social benefit (PV at 7%). Generates $123 million in royalties and $29 million in company tax over the extension period. Annual economic output of $442 million, including $330 million in value added. Continues to support local procurement, community initiatives and regional economic stability.

Environmental management: No new surface disturbance or footprint expansion. Existing water management systems, including the Water Treatment Plant and licenced discharge points, remain in place. Ongoing monitoring of noise, air quality, water, subsidence and ecology. Greenhouse gas emissions assessed; no material increase from existing operations. Rehabilitation objectives unchanged and continue under the approved plan. Protection of surrounding national parks, swamps, and waterways through strict controls and compliance.

Project Status

Completed
DPHI engagement and agreement of Modification requirements
Completed
Prepare Modification Report Stakeholder and Community Consultation
In Progress
Modification Report Submission and Exhibition
In Progress
Response to Submissions
Pending
DPHI Assessment Report
Pending
Minister determination - Approval or Refused

Community Consultation

Centennial Coal believes that successful projects are built on collaboration and understanding. That’s why we’re committed to engaging with the community throughout every stage of our development projects.

Community consultation is at the heart of our approach, as we recognise the invaluable insights and perspectives that residents, businesses, and stakeholders bring to the table. By fostering open dialogue and transparent communication, we ensure that our projects meet regulatory requirements and align with the needs and aspirations of the communities we serve. 

 

Stay in the loop

Contact

approvals@centennialcoal.com.au

0436 034 401

Ron Bush
General Manager
Development & Approvals