Industry advocacy group Coal Australia has appointed Stuart Bocking as its inaugural chief executive officer.

Coal Australia chairman Nick Jorss said Mr Bocking’s appointment would help to consolidate and build upon the group’s existing base as well as driving community and political engagement.

“Coal Australia will be a tireless advocate for Australia’s coal communities, to promote the role that Australian coal plays in strengthening the national economy, in meeting global demand, and in bringing down power costs,” Mr Jorss said.

“Stuart will be vital in communicating that message to all Australians.”

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Mr Bocking (pictured right) was previously a media professional, working in radio and television, before becoming a senior advisor in the NSW government and then the resources sector. Most recently, he was a lawyer for key government departments and agencies.

Mr Bocking said he had been a vocal supporter of coal mining communities and the prosperity they brought to the regions of NSW and Queensland, and his new role presented the perfect opportunity to continue that advocacy.

“The coal mining workforce is a skilled, diverse, and flexible one that is driving prosperity, energy security, and manufacturing, both in the regions and in our capital cities. The sector can feel proud about that,” Mr Bocking said.

Coal Australia’s membership includes Whitehaven Coal, New Hope Group, Stanmore Resources, Kestrel Coal, Bowen Coking Coal, QMetco Limited, Peabody Energy and Yancoal.

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