Mr Scully wrote to the Deputy Premier, Paul Toole MP in December 2021 urging him to make sure the Illawarra would have its own expert panel for the administration of the new fund.

The Royalties for Rejuvenation Fund has been established to support the economic diversification by funding infrastructure, services and programs in coal mining regions as demand for coal declines in the coming years.

The Deputy Premier confirmed during debate on the legislation on Wednesday evening that the Illawarra would have its own expert panel and this would be set out in the regulations.

The Illawarra is a significant contributor to New South Wales’ royalty revenues, which is used to fund hospitals, schools and other essential public services.

“We are a significant producer of high-quality coking coal used to make Australian steel at Port Kembla and we make a sizable contribution to the state’s royalty revenue.

“I welcome the fact the Deputy Premier has agreed with my call to him from last December and again in the debate about the Royalties for Rejuvenation Fund, that the Illawarra needs its own expert panel to help guide the administration of the fund”, Mr Scully said.

He said he looked forward to further discussions with the Deputy Premier on the appointment process for the Illawarra’s independent expert panel.