New panel to provide input on royalties fund

Three Narrabri Shire residents are among a group of five people selected to provide input to the state government for the Royalties for Rejuvenation Fund.

Robyn Faber, Guy Roth and Sally Hunter were selected as members of the North West Regional Expert Panel – one of four panels established to provide advice to the government.

The panel was announced by Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole, who said members were appointed following a competitive process.

Andrew Johns, of Gunnedah, was selected as the North West panel’s chair.

“The panel, comprising of members with a diverse range of skills, expertise, backgrounds and experiences, will provide me with advice and recommendations on applications received through the Royalties for Rejuvenation Fund to ensure that decision-making is aligned with the needs of the local area,” Mr Toole said.

“These panel members, who will serve over a three-year term, will have a say in how the fund is invested towards projects and initiatives like strategic planning and workforce development programs, the development of enabling infrastructure and the establishment of new industries and job opportunities.”

Mr Johns said it is positive that the NSW government is empowering coal mining regions to secure their own futures.

“While coal is a key part of the economy, it won’t be forever, and so now is the time we need to be discussing the projects that will deliver new industries and jobs for the next generation,” Mr Johns said.

“This panel is important because it gives local experts a say in the decisions which will directly impact their communities, businesses and families in the long-term.”

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said the people who live and breathe regional NSW know their communities, which is why it is so important that they are at the table when it comes to making decisions that affect people’s daily lives.

“We know that government investment in the right projects and initiatives can unlock opportunities for people living in the regions,” Mr Anderson said.

“With local knowledge providing input into NSW government investment decisions, I know that their expertise will help build stronger, more resilient regional economies.”

The NSW government has committed at least $25 million each year from mining royalties to support coal mining communities in NSW through the Royalties for Rejuvenation Fund.