16/12/2025

Government-formed Agency advises against expansion of NSW Coal Industry

The NSW Government’s Net Zero Commission, set up in 2023 to advise the state government on progress towards its legislated goals, including a 50 per cent reduction by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050, released its report on 12 December 2025. It has found that expanding coal mining in the state would be inconsistent with emissions reduction targets. However, Premier Chris Minns said it would be “irresponsible” to halt project approvals overnight, citing the coal export industry’s importance to the state economy. Climate advocacy groups have welcomed the findings, while coal mining industry representatives have criticised the scope of the report.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-12-13/independent-agency-recommends-against-nsw-coal-expansion/106139270

Google accelerates Waymo robotaxi Sydney launch plans with Chinese cars

As per news reports, Waymo has held discussions with a Chinese carmaking giant to launch a robotaxi business in Australia as early as this year. Waymo has held discussions about driverless car testing services with a number of electric vehicle makers, including Geely, one of China’s largest. Waymo has also appointed Andrew Cox, a former senior Liberal Party staffer to lobby the federal, Victorian and NSW governments to allow driverless car testing.

https://www.afr.com/technology/waymo-in-talks-with-chinese-ev-brands-for-australian-driverless-taxis-20260114-p5nu51