In designing for a highly productive new mine during the present declining coal market, a very detailed_x000D_
planning is necessary. Attitudes of both management and coal operators may have to be changed, with more initial participation by the unions, governmental agencies, and the coal owners. A considerable number of Australian mines are remote from labour source and this trend is likely to increase particularly in the state of Queensland._x000D_
Consequently such 'mines must be developed on the basis of the future technological and social changes in order to minimise both the capital and operating costs.