Whitehaven Coal : Payment of $0.20 Distribution to Shareholders

Whitehaven Coal Limited (ASX: WHC) confirms that payment of the distribution to shareholders announced to the market on 17 August 2017 is being made today. The distribution comprises:

• a $0.14 per share capital return - as approved by shareholders at Whitehaven's Annual General Meeting on 25 October 2017; and

• a $0.06 per share unfranked dividend.

  A total of approximately $198 million is being returned to shareholders, with each shareholder being paid $0.20 per share held as at the record date of 13 November 2017.

  Payment is being made by EFT or cheque depending on individual shareholder payment elections. Cheques will be delivered by Australia Post in accordance with their delivery timetables. EFT processing may take up to 3 business days to reach shareholder bank accounts.

  Tax implications of distribution

  The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has provided a non-binding indicative opinion that, for taxation purposes, the distribution will be treated as follows:

• a $0.14 per share capital return; and

• a $0.06 per share unfranked dividend.

  Whitehaven expects to receive a Class Ruling from the ATO on 6 December 2017. An announcement will be made to the market when the Class ruling is received and a copy will be made available to shareholders on Whitehaven's website.

  Where can I get more information?

• 2017 Notice of Annual General Meeting available on Whitehaven's website (http://www.whitehavennews.com.au/)

• Call Computershare on 1300 855 080

WHITEHAVENCOAL.COM.AU For further information

please contact

Ian McAleese, GM Investor Relations Michael Van Maanen - Media

P 02 8222 1155

P 0412 500 351