- The Crisafulli Government is pressing Queensland's case at the federal gas market review.
- Queensland's submission outlines the importance of a commercially sustainable gas sector.
- Calls for overhaul of GST distribution model to incentivise gas production.
The Crisafulli Government will press its case at today's Energy and Climate Change Ministerial Council meeting, submitting its formal response to the national review of Australia's gas market settings.
The submission highlights Queensland's critical role in the East Coast gas market and the need for policy reforms that reflect the State's substantial contributions to domestic energy supply and its international reputation as a reliable trading partner.
In 2024, Queensland produced gas valued at nearly $27 billion, directly supporting around 9,000 local jobs, and delivering a better lifestyle for Queenslanders through a stronger economy.
Treasurer and Minister for Energy David Janetzki said Queensland's leadership in the energy sector must be recognised in any proposed reforms.
"Queensland has consistently delivered reliable energy for consumers and supported the development of its gas industry, even as policy failures in southern states have constrained supply," Treasurer Janetzki said.
"Queensland's LNG industry is a major driver of economic activity, and their continued investment is vital in boosting production for the domestic and export markets.
"Our submission to the review highlights the need for policy and regulatory stability to provide industry certainty, incentivise ongoing investment and ensure a commercially sustainable gas sector.
"Queensland is already penalised for its proactive approach to gas development through the current GST distribution model.
"We urge the review to focus on practical solutions grounded in engineering and economics to support new gas supply and infrastructure."
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said Queensland shouldn't be penalised for unscientific decisions in the southern states.
"Queensland does the heavy lifting to keep the gas flowing down the East Coast, and it's only fair that national policy supports our overwhelming contribution," Minister Last said.
"Supply constraints on the East Coast are the fault of unscientific decisions south of the Tweed, and Queensland shouldn't be penalised for taking a practical, common-sense approach.
"While other jurisdictions are locking up gas, Queensland is creating the conditions for more gas investment, to bring on new supply, create jobs and deliver real opportunities across the regions.
"This includes the release of nine new areas for gas exploration earlier this year, across a geographical area six times the size of the ACT.
"The southern states could resolve this issue by taking the same common-sense approach that Queensland has - but if they don't want to develop their own cheap gas, we won't stop them building pipelines that create jobs for Queenslanders."
