Joint media release with Minister for Resources, Water and Northern Australia Keith Pitt

The development of new gas projects will be vital to securing Australian domestic gas supplies until 2023 and beyond, according to a new report by the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO).

AEMO’s Gas Statement of Opportunities (GSOO) report for 2021 found the outlook for gas supply had improved since last year, but it was vital that anticipated projects came online.

AEMO forecasts the nation’s gas supply will be secure to at least 2026, but highlights this is dependent on the development of important infrastructure such as the Port Kembla import terminal being delivered to avoid shortfalls in 2023.

AEMO also highlighted the critical role of gas-powered generation in the electricity sector, particularly during winter peaks in states like Victoria and to support intermittent renewables.

Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor said the Government is committed to a gas-fired recovery that will see Australian gas working for all Australians.

“We have been taking action to help secure the gas supplies that are vital to our economic recovery to avoid potential shortfalls and price hikes,” Minister Taylor said.

“The supply of reliable, affordable gas will keep downward pressure on energy prices and the lights on for Australian businesses and households.

“Gas will be even more important as Australia continues to be a world-leader in the renewables sector, with one in four Australian households having solar installed.”

Minister for Resources, Water and Northern Australia said the Government has a detailed plan to ensure more gas supply.

“Our Strategic Basin Plan announced last year will prioritise five areas for development with real potential to deliver more gas into the domestic market, beginning with the Beetaloo Basin in the Northern Territory,” Minister Pitt said.

“I recently announced the guidelines for a $50 million grants program that will encourage and speed up exploration in the Beetaloo and that means more jobs sooner and more major investment sooner.

“We will identify, and progress other basins with major gas reserves providing further economic opportunities, particularly in regional areas.”

AEMO reported that proposed pipeline expansions, storage projects and new basin developments could further improve the resilience of Australia’s domestic gas system, along with an import terminal.

The Government’s National Gas Infrastructure Plan, announced as part last year’s Budget, will consider such projects and map pathways to avoid short term shortfalls.

The Government wants to work with industry to see these vital infrastructure projects delivered. This must be balanced with encouraging more local basin development that supports Australian jobs, brings investment to regional areas, and lowers gas prices for consumers.

The gas-fired recovery will deliver a more competitive and transparent gas market in Australia to benefit both gas producers and users. This action will focus on three key areas: unlocking gas supply, delivering an efficient pipeline and transportation market, and empowering gas customers.

Media contacts:

Minister Taylor's office 02 6277 7120

Minister Pitt's office 02 6277 7180