A coal mining lobby group has called on its members to join a fundraising event hosted by National Party leader David Littleproud, right before the federal election which could have a significant bearing on the coal industry’s future. The event, scheduled for Wednesday night, was organized by the National party, according to promotional material from Coal Australia.

The lobby group confirmed its attendance at the fundraiser, which will reportedly focus on discussing election strategies, policy priorities, and perspectives from recent polling data. The event is held at a time when federal polls indicate a close race, with Green and teal independent candidates aiming to support a Labor minority government – a scenario the event’s organizers say would be detrimental to the country’s traditional industries, including coal.

The National Party, a vocal advocate for the interests of coal miners, has received financial contributions from various fossil fuel sectors. The fundraiser is part of a series taking place more frequently as major parties amass funds for the upcoming May election.

Stuart Bocking, the CEO of Coal Australia, said the group supports parties that advocate for coal mining communities and their importance to national prosperity. No donations from Coal Australia to the National Party have been recorded, although the latest financial disclosures predate the lobby group’s establishment.

The fundraiser comes in the wake of Cyclone Alfred, which has heightened the profile of climate change and its associated extreme weather events in this election. Labor’s stance on environmental issues, including the approval of new coal mining projects, has faced criticism and scrutiny, spiraling into questions about the sustainability and future directions of the state’s energy policies.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/mar/13/coal-lobby-group-fundraiser-nationals-david-littleproud-ntwnfb