Cameron served as chairman of the Council previously, in 1998-1999 and 2001-2002. He will also assume the role of chairman of the Australian Coal Association.

Cameron said he is looking forward to working with fellow member companies, mining industry organisations, other stakeholders and the NSW Government to promote the State’s largest export industry.

“It is an honour to again be elected to chair the NSW Minerals Council. During the coming year, the Council will be focusing its attention on the important issues of safety, industry cost competitiveness, infrastructure and planning”, Cameron said.

“The industry is currently facing the challenges of increasing costs, including royalties and workers compensation, and constrained infrastructure. I will be seeking to highlight industry’s concerns when engaging with the NSW and Commonwealth Governments. It is my hope that industry and Governments can work together to continue to improve past efficiency gains in order to maintain Australia’s reputation as international mining leaders,” Cameron said.

He noted that the recently announced changes to the NSW coal royalties would severely impact on the industry and the NSW Minerals Council is seeking to work with the NSW Government to ensure a sustainable outcome.

“While the industry is currently enjoying a period of high coal prices, the new ad valorem royalty rates will cost industry heavily in a down cycle. We are continuing discussions with the Government to identify ways in which the new royalty process can present positive outcomes for both industry and the Government revenue base.”

Cameron acknowledged the contribution of the outgoing chairman, Ugo Cario, managing director of Austral Coal.

“Ugo has made a major contribution to the industry, both as interim chairman of the NSW Minerals Council and as an industry representative on the Board of Coal Services P/L, the coal industry’s workers compensation system. He has worked tirelessly to improve the industry’s position under very challenging circumstances and I thank him for his dedication and his significant leadership contribution,” Cameron concluded.