Peabody Energy seeks to extend operations at its Metropolitan Mine, located south of Sydney, until 2044, receiving strong support from unions. The mine is Australia’s oldest continuously operating coalmine. This plan, however, is facing strong resistance from the Greens party, who are urging its rejection. Concerns center around the mine’s location under Sydney’s water catchment area and potential environmental impacts. Union backing highlights the importance of the mine to employment in the region. The decision to allow the expansion will likely spark further debate about the balance between economic benefits and environmental protection in New South Wales, Australia.