Energy systems are changing whether we like it or not. Currently there is a lack of policy to ensure that this change is orderly and just. There are already examples of communities that are being affected by these changes and the current policy vacuum.The Australia Institute has published many reports and submissions related to coal mining and coal-fired power. In this submission we outline examples which demonstrate that the lack of policy to help shift away from coal-fired power is having a real impact on local communities. Australia’s slow progress on this transition is also having an impact on the world’s climate.