This description provides an overview of Australia's role as the world's largest exporter of coal. It highlights the country's importance in the global coal market, and the economic and environmental implications of this export. Additionally, it examines the challenges and opportunities that come with being a major exporter of
Coal is mined in nearly every state of Australia. The largest black coal resources occur in Queensland and New South Wales. About 70% of coal mined in Australia is exported, mostly to eastern Asia, and of the balance most is used in electricity generation. In 2019-20 Australia exported 390 Mt of coal and was the world's largest exporter of metallurgical coal and second largest exporter of thermal coal. Despite only employing 50,000 mining jobs nationally, coal provides a rich revenue stream for governments.