The Australian government has unveiled plans for policy changes that will put renewable energy at the centre of the country’s economic future.
In a speech in Queensland Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced this year the government will create the Future Made in Australia Act.
“We will bring together in a comprehensive and co-ordinated way a whole package of new and existing initiatives to boost investment, create jobs and seize the opportunities of a future made in Australia,” he said.
“We want to look at every measure that will make a positive difference.
“Investing in new industries – and ensuring that workers and communities will share in the dividend.”
He added this requires giving the new Net Zero Economy Authority “every tool it needs” to support resource communities in particular through the coming period of economic change.
Clean Energy Council chief executive Kane Thornton said the trade body looks forward to working closely with the Commonwealth on the proposed legislation to set Australia up to unlock its natural advantages in clean energy.
He added: “The Prime Minister’s speech marks another decisive moment for Australia’s ambition to secure a place as a leading nation in the global clean energy industry.
“It is positive news that the Federal government has plans to back its vision with a substantial policy agenda, putting renewable energy at the centre of our economic future.
“The highlighted areas of hydrogen, green metals and advanced clean energy manufacturing and assembly are genuine opportunities for Australia to expand, grow and diversify our economy centred around clean energy and create further demand for a large and skilled clean energy workforce.
“The US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has vastly redefined the global race to net-zero and the challenge ahead for Australia’s own energy transition.
“The Clean Energy Council has been the leading advocate for a targeted response to the IRA, releasing its Power Playbook in October 2023, setting out 45 recommendations to put Australia on track to meet its target of 82 per cent renewables by 2030 and seize its opportunity as a clean energy superpower.
“This includes recognising the tremendous opportunities for Australia in green hydrogen, minerals processing and green metals production.”