James Pearson, CEO of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry:
Households and businesses are feeling the pinch from gas prices, so we need more affordable gas. The best solution is to increase gas supply, so state and territory governments’ moratoria on new gas projects are deeply troubling and should be reversed.
The Federal Government’s decision to seek powers to direct gas supply to the domestic market is a significant step. If these powers are used, they should be used transparently, sparingly and temporarily while we take action to increase supply and re-establish a well-functioning market.
Policy makers should work closely with producers and consumers to ensure energy supply for the domestic market while allowing Australia to remain a world-leading energy exporter.