The taskforce will include five members: Opposition spokesman for resources Steve Whan; Opposition spokesman for the environment and member for Keira, Ryan Park; member for Cessnock Clayton Barr; and member for Shellharbour Anna Watson.

Mr Foley said the decision to form the taskforce was in response to community concern to exploration and a perception the O’Farrell government was not listening to their concerns.

“If the O’Farrell government is not going to consult with local communities over coal seam gas exploration and mining, the NSW Opposition will do it for them,” Mr Foley said.

The taskforce plans to visit the Illawarra and the Hunter Valley first.