Muswellbrook Shire has led discussions in Canberra this week with all sides of politics, with
jobs and the future of mining land in Muswellbrook top of the agenda.

Muswellbrook Mayor Jeff Drayton met with key figures in the Australian Government, opposition
and crossbench.

“Muswellbrook Shire wants to see action at the federal and state levels to unlock the potential
of mining land in the Shire for future industry opportunities,” Mayor Drayton said.

“In the Muswellbrook Shire we proudly back our communities and we came to Canberra,
across divides and levels of government, to get better outcomes for the hard-working people we
represent.”

Among Muswellbrook Shire mining land use projects raised with representatives in Canberra
was the Thomas Mitchell Drive Industrial Expansion.

The proposed pilot project on BHP Mt Arthur land could be a pivotal demonstration of how
government can work together to repurpose this land for future industry and create jobs.

“As leaders we need to act for the future of the Hunter, and we’re seeking support and funding
to address local challenges and opportunities for mining lands,” Mayor Drayton said.

Other priorities raised by the Hunter Joint Organisation included housing, roads, the circular
economy, international tourism and airfreight.