Media release: Greens’ EPBC demands threaten Australia’s energy security

Australian Energy Producers has called on the Albanese Government to secure a balanced agreement on its environmental law reforms by working with the Coalition, warning the Greens’ reckless demands will delay critical new gas supply needed to secure Australia’s future energy needs.

Australian Energy Producers Chief Executive Samantha McCulloch said the proposals reported this morning to secure a deal with the Greens would add unnecessary duplication, red tape and uncertainty.

“Embedding extra layers of assessment, restricting streamlined pathways, and creating exemptions simply to secure a deal with the Greens will drive up energy costs, deter investment, and undermine the integrity of the reform process,” Ms McCulloch said.

“For investors, this means greater uncertainty, reduced clarity, and higher costs — with inevitable impacts on jobs, competitiveness, and energy affordability.

“The gas industry supports environmental laws that are clear, consistent, and workable. That requires a balanced approach, and a negotiated outcome with the Coalition is the most reliable way to deliver long-term certainty for industry, communities, and the environment.

“These measures run counter to the Graeme Samuel review, which called for clear, simple environmental rules to reduce legal uncertainty, not create more of it.”

“They are also at odds with the Prime Minister’s welcome remarks at the G20 Summit on the important role for gas in the energy transition, as well as the Future Gas Strategy’s recognition of the urgent need for new gas investment to meet demand and avoid projected shortfalls.

“Australia’s natural gas sector is essential to our energy security and economic prosperity. Gas provides more than a quarter of our primary energy needs, contributes over $100 billion annually to the economy, and supports 215,000 jobs. We need a system that reflects those realities, not one distorted by political trade-offs.”

“With targeted amendments that remove duplication and support timely decision-making, this legislation can achieve the right balance.”