Coal transition in Australia: an overview of issues

Australia produces and exports large amounts of thermal coal. This industry is likely to be
in long term decline. This paper provides an overview of Australian coal production and
exports and discusses issues for the transition of the coal industry. It sketches possible
scenarios for declining domestic use of thermal coal, and summarizes a case study of the
closure of the Hazelwood power station and the programs to help the regional social and
economic adjustment.