Media release: Australians back accelerated energy development to strengthen fuel security

New polling shows Australians are overwhelmingly concerned about fuel security and rising energy costs, with strong support for accelerating domestic energy development to improve self-sufficiency.

The results highlight the importance of advancing new oil and gas projects, including in the Taroom Trough, Beetaloo Basin and the Dorado oil project.

Australian Energy Producers Chief Executive Samantha McCulloch said Australia has a significant opportunity to enhance its energy security by building on its strengths as a major energy producer.

“Australia’s growing reliance on imported fuels presents a clear energy security challenge — and strengthening domestic supply must be part of the solution,” Ms McCulloch said.

“In a more uncertain global environment, improving Australia’s energy security means meeting more of our own energy needs where we can.

“Developing resources in the Taroom Trough, alongside opportunities in the Beetaloo Basin and projects like Dorado, can play an important role in supporting greater self-sufficiency and long-term supply reliability.”

Ms McCulloch said the polling shows Australians recognise the risks associated with growing reliance on imports.

“There is strong community support for developing Australia’s own resources rather than increasing reliance on imports, as well as for fast-tracking local projects to support domestic oil and gas supply.

“Australians also recognise the importance of strengthening our fuel security — including increasing domestic production and ensuring adequate reserves.”

Ms McCulloch said a balanced and resilient energy system would require continued collaboration.

“Strengthening energy security is a shared priority and will require ongoing cooperation between industry and governments, along with stable policy settings and efficient approvals processes,” she said.

“Australia is well placed to leverage its natural resources and expertise to deliver reliable, affordable energy for the long term.”

Key findings from JWS Research polling on liquid fuels and LNG imports

JWS Research conducted an online survey of 2,000 Australians on behalf of Australian Energy Producers between 27–31 March.

Fuel security and liquid fuels

• 94% of Australians are concerned about rising petrol and diesel prices, including 77% extremely or very concerned
• 78% support producing more oil domestically to improve fuel security
• 76% support building more refineries to produce more of Australia’s own fuels
• 92% support increasing emergency fuel reserves

LNG imports and gas supply

• 89% prefer Australia developing its own gas resources rather than importing gas
• 65% support fast-tracking local gas projects to avoid the need for imports