Instead of focussing just on coal seam gas exploration in the Broke Bulga district, the new CCC will encompass mineral and petroleum exploration projects in the State.

As a result of this review the new CCC will soon be complete for AGL’s broader Hunter Gas Project to encompass the interests of the wider region, said Minister for Primary Industries Steven Whan.

The two additional community representatives, up from the previous committee’s four, and the imperative that they come from a range of local interests will help ensure the wider community is reflected on the committee.

Margaret Macdonald-Hill, executive officer of the Association of Mining Related Councils has been appointed as the independent chairperson of the new established committee.

Mr Whan said the purpose of a CCC is to provide a forum for open discussion between the exploration company, the appointed community representatives and relevant government agencies.

Ensuring the community is kept in the loop at all stages of exploratory activities in the mineral sector is crucial to achieving a successful balance between the energy needs of the people of NSW and the interest of local communities at a grass roots level, he said.

AGL is exploring for coal seam methane across the Hunter Valley, including the Bulga/Broke area.

Nominations for the new Hunter Gas Project Community Consultative Committee will be called for shortly under the new terms of reference.

When the Bulga CCC was axed last year, members voiced anger at the decision, saying it would take the focus off the Bulga project.