Longwall mining generally results in subsidence of the land surface. While the extent and nature of subsidence on surface topography is reasonably well understood the effects on surface environments (agricultural and native vegetation) arc less well known. In this paper we will describe the initial stage of a three year ACARP project to develop scientific protocols to quantify changes to above-ground environments. Specifically, the project objectives are to: quantify the effects of longwall mine subsidence on agricultural and terrestrial native vegetation; develop industry-standard methods for monitoring these effects; optimise monitoring quality, quantity, safety aspects, timeliness and cost effectiveness through the integration of high resolution remote sensing and ground-based sampling.