Whitehaven Coal Boosts Quarterly Output Despite Falling Prices

Whitehaven Coal reported a strong rise in quarterly production, driven by gains across its Queensland and New South Wales operations, even as weaker coal prices weighed on revenue amid global trade uncertainty.

Managed run-of-mine (ROM) coal production jumped 15% quarter-on-quarter to 10.6 million tonnes (Mt) for the June quarter. Queensland mines led growth, surging 26% to 5.6 Mt, supported by record output at the Blackwater mine and a recovery at Daunia following earlier weather-related disruptions. New South Wales production rose 5% to 4.9 Mt but was partially impacted by an extended shutdown at the Narrabri underground mine.

Despite lower coal prices, Whitehaven maintained cost discipline. Unaudited FY25 unit costs came in at A$139 per tonne, outperforming earlier guidance. However, the average realized coal price declined sharply to A$189 per tonne, down from A$238 a year ago, as Chinese demand softened and U.S. tariffs pressured trade flows.

Whitehaven’s production resilience underscores its operational efficiency amid volatile market conditions. The company expects to release FY26 guidance in August, with investors closely watching how ongoing price softness and global demand trends may shape its outlook.

This performance highlights Whitehaven Coal’s role in Australia’s thermal coal supply chain, with Queensland and New South Wales assets remaining central to its growth strategy despite shifting international market dynamics.