Australia currently holds only weeks of liquid fuel reserves, leaving the country highly exposed to international supply disruptions and price volatility.
New research commissioned by Sydney Airport finds Australians strongly support developing a domestic Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) industry:
- Nearly 70% of Australians support SAF once they understand what it is
- Around 60% support policies to accelerate local production
- Many are willing to contribute small amounts through airline tickets to help fund the industry
- Respondents recognise the potential for regional jobs, agricultural demand and local manufacturing
At the same time, a new Asia-Pacific benchmark report released by the Low Carbon Fuels Alliance from Bioenergy Australia finds that several regional markets are moving faster than Australia to establish renewable fuels industries through policy mandates, incentives and investment frameworks. The report warns Australia risks missing a major economic opportunity despite abundant feedstocks and industrial capability. Industry analysis suggests a domestic renewable fuels sector could be worth more than $10 billion annually and support over 26,000 jobs, many in regional areas.
Both reports are being launched today at the Renewable Fuels Summit.
Bioenergy Australia CEO Shahana McKenzie is