The Powering the Future Economy initiative was celebrated this week at Muswellbrook Racecourse, bringing together the Net Zero Economy Authority (NZEA) Hunter team, Muswellbrook Shire Council, representatives from the Commonwealth and NSW governments, and local industry.
The initiative, designed to attract new investment and support economic diversification in the Upper Hunter, with a focus on long-term growth and resilience for the Muswellbrook community, was officially launched at NSW Parliament House last week.
Mayor Jeff Drayton, council staff and industry partners outlined the opportunities expected to emerge from the program, positioning the initiative as a coordinated effort across levels of government and industry.
Industrial repositioning, not transition
Council has framed the initiative as a shift in how the region positions its economy, describing it as an industrial repositioning shaped by energy security and the area’s location.
This reflects a move from reliance on thermal coal mining toward a broader industrial base, while retaining the region’s existing strengths in energy, infrastructure and workforce capability.
Infrastructure and location underpin investment case
Muswellbrook’s location and infrastructure are central to its investment proposition. The region sits within three hours of Sydney and within two hours of both Newcastle and Tamworth, with direct connections via state road and rail networks.
The area also has established water and electricity infrastructure supporting large-scale industrial land, alongside proximity to key export and transport assets including the Port of Newcastle and Newcastle Airport.
Council points to these factors, along with existing industrial capability and workforce availability, as enabling conditions for new and emerging industries to establish in the region.
Mt Arthur master plan to guide future use
A key component of the initiative is a partnership between the NZEA, Muswellbrook Shire Council, the NSW Government and BHP to develop a master plan for the future of the Mt Arthur mine site.
The work will examine how the site can be repurposed into a productive and sustainable asset, with the aim of supporting new jobs, investment and industry activity in the Hunter.
This planning process is intended to provide a structured pathway for post-mining land use, linking site redevelopment with broader regional economic goals.
Industry invitation and next steps
Council has positioned Muswellbrook as ready to partner with businesses seeking to invest in new industry opportunities, supported by infrastructure, land availability and workforce capability.
The region is promoting its long-standing industrial base, stable policy environment and established workforce as part of its investment case, alongside access to national and international markets through existing transport links.
An enquiry process has been established through Council’s economic development team to facilitate discussions with potential investors, with the initiative forming part of ongoing efforts to reshape the Upper Hunter’s economic base.
