Simon Birmingham (SA, Liberal Party, Minister for Trade) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator McMahon for her question. She is a passionate Territorian who knows full well that the natural resources—the energy resources—of the Territory are crucial to its domestic economy and to so many of its export opportunities as well. Indeed, our government is focused on delivering affordable, reliable energy to support the economy, including the economy of the Territory, and new jobs. Affordable and reliable power will help to lower cost-of-living pressures on families and to ensure local businesses can grow and thrive, which in turn helps to ensure that comeback of jobs and the economy across the board that we are seeing right now.

Australia's competitive advantage has always been based on its cheap energy. The right mix of renewables, gas and energy sources is central to our ongoing economic recovery and competitiveness. We expect to see those natural resources working effectively for Australians. A key part of this is to deliver to Australians, and to industry and businesses that rely upon gas, the gas resources that are necessary, at the right price. Our focus is on unlocking supply, ensuring efficient transportation and empowering Australian consumers. We know that gas is a critical enabler of Australia's economy, supporting a manufacturing sector employing 850,000 Australians across the board. We know also that the Territory relies on gas generation to keep the lights on, with almost 60 per cent of electricity generation in the Territory coming from gas. Though that mix may change over time, it is an important part of any transitional growth in the renewables sector as well.

The Territory is in prime position to take advantage of the opportunities and benefits of gas. With a skilled workforce, this can grow to both onshore and offshore development opportunities. It can help with the transition in terms of a lower emissions future, without imposing new costs on businesses but whilst growing jobs and opportunities across the Territory.