to net zero, and that means that the vertically integrated mines and power stations in our region will eventually reach the end of life, and the Lithgow community will need to shift to industries of the future. With approximately 1,500 jobs at stake—about 25% of the local workforce—the ripple effects on schools, healthcare, and community services could be profound. Lithgow’s leaders recognize this and These industries have cultivated a skilled workforce and support local procurement policies, ensuring economic benefits are reinvested into the community. However, the impending closure of coal-fired power stations and their associated mines has presented a significant challenge to the city. “We are in a period of change, and our community recognizes that we have an economy that’s shifting 62 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 01
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