Tahmoor Mine Workers Stood Down Amid Financial Uncertainty

On February 7, 2025, approximately 400 workers at the Tahmoor coal mine in New South Wales were temporarily stood down with full pay as its owner, GFG Alliance, struggles with mounting financial difficulties. The Mining and Energy Union has urged GFG to sell the mine to secure the long-term future of the workforce.

Union district secretary Andy Davey stated that two potential buyers had previously expressed interest in purchasing the mine, but their offers were rejected by GFG. He emphasized that under new ownership, the mine could clear its debts and continue operations for decades.

GFG acquired the Tahmoor colliery in 2018 from Glencore, and it has since been a key revenue source for the company. However, financial strain has led to reports of unpaid debts to contractors, mirroring broader issues within GFG's Australian operations, including the Whyalla steelworks in South Australia, which is also facing significant outstanding payments.

A GFG spokesperson confirmed that despite the slowdown, all employees remain on full pay and that normal production is expected to resume soon. Meanwhile, concerns persist that GFG Alliance, led by billionaire Sanjeev Gupta, may struggle to sustain its Australian mining and steel operations amid ongoing financial instability.