Blue-collar Workers Demand Strong Gas Reservation Plan from Albanese Government
December 4, 2025
The Albanese government is set to reveal plans for a gas reservation scheme soon to tackle rising gas prices. After a six-month review, the government aims to secure gas supplies for Australian homes and businesses. Blue-collar workers and manufacturers want the scheme to cover gas from existing projects, not just new ones. Paul Farrow, Australian Workers’ Union national secretary, said, "To shore up Australian industry for the 21st century, we need affordable gas reserved for domestic use right now – not years down the track." Manufacturers like BlueScope Steel also stress urgent action is needed to lower gas prices that threaten jobs. The government has considered two models: one focusing on Queensland LNG exporters supplying gas locally in exchange for export permits, and another requiring all gas producers to supply a set volume to the domestic market. The AWU supports targeting exporters directly, as they "broke the domestic market in the first place." Gas prices on the east coast have tripled over the past decade due to LNG exports linking to global demand. Meanwhile, Labor MP Ed Husic wants to stop importers from reselling Australian gas abroad, calling it a "real BBQ-stopper." The Greens suggest taxing LNG exports to keep gas at home, saying it would replace a broken tax system. The government did not confirm policy details but said it is committed to fair gas access for Australians. Western Australia already has a gas reservation requiring exporters to supply 15% of LNG locally. This new plan aims to secure similar or better protection for the east coast.
Read More at Theguardian →
Tags:
Gas Reservation Scheme
Albanese Government
Australian Workers' Union
Gas Prices
Lng Exports
Manufacturers
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