Energy

Ryan acknowledged the merit of the domestic reservation scheme but argued it would not significantly impact prices because it applies only to spot volumes and excludes contracts signed before December 2025. Ryan criticised the government for failing to reform the petroleum resource rent tax, noting that revenue forecasts are declining while windfall profits flow to multinationals. Ryan advocated for a fair share levy or higher gas taxes to generate billions for public services, arguing the current tax architecture allows companies to defer liabilities indefinitely.

Georganas supported the motion, stating that reserving 20 per cent of gas for domestic use protects households and strengthens industry resilience against global instability. Georganas agreed with calls for stronger taxation measures, suggesting a 25 per cent export tax would further reduce domestic prices and raise revenue for infrastructure and health services. Georganas emphasised that while the reservation scheme is a positive first step, more action is needed to ensure foreign multinationals contribute fairly to the Australian economy.

Rebello argued that the government was slow to act on fuel security, only addressing vulnerabilities after a crisis emerged in the Middle East. Rebello claimed the coalition had previously proposed a gas reservation plan that Labor rejected, and criticised the current policy for lacking clarity on how it applies to existing contracts and smaller companies. Rebello asserted that genuine fuel security requires fast-tracking approvals for gas extraction projects, which he claimed the government's environmental regulations hinder.

Gregg addressed three issues: liquid fuel shortages, electrification, and gas reservation. Gregg defended the government's rapid response to the Strait of Hormuz crisis, noting that supply was secured through international partnerships and legislative amendments. Gregg argued that electrification reduces dependency on unstable liquid fuel supplies, while the gas reservation scheme addresses predictable east coast shortfalls. Gregg emphasised that detailed policy design is necessary to ensure long-term effectiveness and national resilience.

McCormack argued that the government failed to adequately address fuel distribution logistics during recent shortages, particularly in regional areas like Batlow. McCormack criticised the appointment of a taskforce coordinator as a distraction from ministerial responsibilities and questioned the government's commitment to energy production. McCormack opposed the government's net zero policies, claiming they hurt regional Australians and manufacturers by restricting access to cheap energy and opposing new exploration projects.

Clutterham defined energy sovereignty as the capacity to meet energy needs autonomously, highlighting the government's use of trade relationships to secure fuel and fertiliser supplies. Clutterham detailed budget commitments, including $11.9 billion for the National Fuel Security Plan and $35 million for the domestic gas reservation mechanism. Clutterham argued that sovereignty requires a broad approach beyond drilling, including infrastructure investment and market reliability measures, rather than simplistic calls for exploration.

Aldred focused on the impact of energy policy on regional industries, particularly in Gippsland, where agriculture and manufacturing rely on secure energy supplies. Aldred raised concerns about the scheduled closure of the Yallourn Power Station by 2028 and the lack of a clear replacement plan for baseload electricity. Aldred criticised the Victorian government's handling of coal-to-fertiliser projects and argued that energy security is essential for maintaining jobs and economic stability in regional communities.