The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is putting Hunter mines on notice to protect local air quality, with the annual Bust the Dust campaign kicking off again this spring.
Now in its sixth year, the successful regulatory campaign returns with strengthened penalties which came into force after passing into law in 2024.
Mines found to be in breach of their licence conditions now face significantly higher penalties, including $30,000 for a first offence and $45,000 for a subsequent offence.
During the campaign, EPA Operations Officers will be out in force doing roadside surveillance, unannounced inspections and using drones to monitor dust generation.
NSW EPA Director Operations David Gathercole said he recognises the community wants to see stronger regulation to ensure open cut mines don't contribute to air pollution.
"While we regulate dust emissions year-round, regional air quality monitoring shows spring is a peak time for particle pollution.
"The Bust the Dust campaign is a timely reminder for operators to have the right practices in place before we come knocking.
"Mines can prevent dust pollution through improved surveillance and reporting and by deploying water on stockpiles and roads or just ceasing work during dry and windy conditions," Mr Gathercole said.
Earlier this year, Warkworth Mining in Mount Thorley entered into a legally binding agreement to improve dust management. The mine was forced to pay $120,000 to a local environmental rehabilitation project after finding operational failures during the Bust the Dust campaign in 2023.
More than 11 mines were inspected across the region in last year's campaign, and all were found to be managing dust appropriately.
Community members are encouraged to report concerns about dust emissions to the Environment Line on 131 555 or via email at
