The representatives are coming from Queensland, Victoria and other parts of New South Wales to formulate a common approach on mining in community areas.

Executive officer for the Hunter Valley Protection Alliance John Thompson said all the groups are calling for the government to do the same thing.

“We expect we can join together to get a clear and precise message that we can pack up for the government to get some changes made now,” he said yesterday.

“The rules are in the hands of the state government, but they have failed.

“At present there is a draft form of this message which is that we want a moratorium on all further developments on coal seam gas and coal mining until the needs of the community are met.”

Mr Thompson said the government needs to realise that a balance is needed between mining and resources needs and the needs and safety of communities.

“This country, this state, needs food, wine, tourism, places to live, places to breed horses, cattle and dairy cows, and all of this is taking place in the areas that are being mined,” he said.

AGL Energy is currently undertaking coal seam gas exploration works in the Broke/Fordwich community.

There are currently 10 test wells with one positioned within 300metres of Broke Public School.