Chris Bowen

Answer from Chris Bowen (Minister for Climate Change and Energy)

The member noted that current fuel stocks exceed the minimum levels previously deemed necessary by the former energy minister. He emphasized that fuel supplies are arriving and stocks are strong, urging responsible members to reassure the public that there is no need for panic buying despite real challenges. He contrasted the government's leadership with the opposition's political maneuvering.

Answer from Chris Bowen (Minister for Industry and Science)

The minister reiterated that the closure was a decision by the owners. He argued that unplanned outages at coal plants, such as Callide, posed the biggest threat to energy reliability and prices. He stated that modernising the energy system was essential for industrial jobs, contrasting this with the opposition's focus on keeping ageing assets operational.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The minister stated that no payments had been made under the Hydrogen Headstart or production tax credit policies because green hydrogen had not yet been produced. He noted that some hydrogen hubs announced by the previous government had not proceeded. He offered to provide further details on specific hub expenditures and affirmed that green hydrogen had a role in future industrial decarbonisation.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The minister affirmed close cooperation with Pacific nations, citing the Palau declaration which identified climate change as the biggest threat to livelihoods. He highlighted domestic progress, noting that renewable energy had exceeded 50 per cent of the mix in the last quarter of the previous year. He argued that building new renewable energy is the pathway for transition, replacing old energy sources gradually. He committed to continuing international work with Pacific leaders to elevate climate issues on the global stage.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The minister clarified that his recent comments referred to the hype around green hydrogen for home heating and transport, noting that electric vehicles had overtaken petrol cars and only one hydrogen car was sold last year. He stated that green hydrogen would still play a role in industrial decarbonization. He pointed out that the shadow minister had also made similar positive statements about green hydrogen in the past.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The minister stated that 540,211 households had installed cheaper home batteries, including 2,326 in Dunkley. He noted the program had doubled the number of battery installers to 8,846, creating jobs in Western Sydney. He highlighted high uptake rates in several Western Sydney electorates. He contrasted the government's support for the program with the opposition's intention to abolish it.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister stated that he had received regular progress reports from the Clean Energy Regulator since the program's implementation on 1 July 2025. He noted that these reports showed the number of complaints per installation had halved since the program began. He denied claims of systemic fraud, stating that 535,833 households had installed batteries and that the opposition's allegations were untrue.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister reported that 535,833 households had installed cheaper home batteries, with more than 10 per cent of households in seven electorates participating. He highlighted that the electorate of Mitchell had the highest participation rate at 12.5 per cent. He stated that total installed capacity had reached 15 gigawatt hours, exceeding the entire US home battery capacity. He argued that the opposition's desire to abolish the program was the only thing that could stop this progress, citing high public support for the policy.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The minister stated that auction results for the scheme were commercial in confidence, consistent with longstanding practice for government auctions. He noted that 65 projects had pledged $35.5 billion in domestic inputs, with $1.1 billion allocated to Australian steel. He highlighted that some projects, such as the one in Wellington, had negotiated five per cent equity ownership for local First Nations people.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The minister stated that the scheme was treated as commercial in confidence in the budget, similar to previous government programs like the Underwriting New Generation Investments program. He noted that the projects aimed to provide cheaper energy and cited a press release from the shadow minister acknowledging that the net zero agenda was delivering affordable energy.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister reported that 504,470 Australians had installed cheaper home batteries in the last 12 months, totaling 14.1 gigawatt hours, surpassing the US total. He linked this to a 47 per cent reduction in wholesale prices. He highlighted high adoption rates in several electorates, including Macquarie. He stated that the opposition would abolish the battery policy and replace it with an uncosted nuclear plan, which he argued would increase bills and delay action.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister confirmed that free power was a legal requirement for energy companies. He stated that the default market offer had reduced prices by 3.4 per cent in the Endeavour Energy network. He highlighted that 2,720 households in Fowler had installed cheaper home batteries, reducing bills significantly. He argued that the policy was effective and popular in the electorate.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister stated that 457,439 households had installed cheaper home batteries in the last year, with Australia now having more household batteries than California. He noted that solar sharer was available in NSW, South-East Queensland, and South Australia, offering three hours of free electricity. He mentioned rule changes limiting price rises to once a year and banning excessive fees. He warned that the opposition would abolish these policies.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister stated that the cheaper home battery policy, introduced on 1 July last year, had been adopted by 456,320 households, equating to 13 gigawatt-hours of storage. He noted that this capacity was 100 times that of the Hornsdale battery. The Minister highlighted that over 10 per cent of households in several electorates, including Hume, had installed batteries. He criticized the opposition for opposing cheaper home batteries, EV tax cuts, and the new vehicle efficiency standard, claiming they wanted to keep bills high.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister highlighted the cheaper home battery scheme, which had increased uptake from one in 60 to one in 17 households, and the growth in electric vehicle sales due to new efficiency standards. He stated that abolishing these policies, as proposed by the Liberal Party, would increase costs and taxes, citing a Parliamentary Budget Office estimate of $600 million in additional petrol tax revenue if standards were removed.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister announced an extension of fuel excise relief for another month. He reported that 448,342 households have taken up cheaper home batteries, with over 10 per cent uptake in electorates like Greenway, Mitchell, Mayo, and Wright. He highlighted support for electric vehicles through the new vehicle efficiency standard and tax cuts. He warned that the opposition would abolish these measures, thereby increasing costs for Australians.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister stated that Australia held greater fuel reserves than at any point since the minimum stock obligation began, with 44 days of petrol, 39 days of diesel, and 32 days of jet fuel. He noted that 51 ships were en route with fuel and 3.9 billion litres were contracted for delivery over the next four weeks. The Minister criticized opposition members for predicting shortages and rationing, asserting that the government's calm approach had ensured supply security. He thanked the private sector and trading partners for their cooperation.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister stated that the government's focus was on securing fuel supply during an international crisis. He highlighted reforms to the Safeguard Mechanism, which had led to 5.8 million tonnes of emissions being avoided over two years. He projected that 17 billion litres of diesel use would be avoided between now and 2035 through settings designed to encourage large emitters to reduce fuel use.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister stated that Australia had 48 days' worth of petrol, an increase of 12 days since the bombing of Iran. He noted supplies of diesel and jet fuel had also increased, with total fuel stocks at 6.2 billion litres. He criticized the Opposition for raising unfounded concerns about shortages. He highlighted the government's plan to build a strategic fuel reserve and promote electric vehicles, noting that in May, 30 per cent of new car sales were for electric or plug-in hybrid models. He stated that abolishing the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard and EV tax cuts would undermine fuel security.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister stated that the default market offer indicated energy bill cuts of as much as 10.7 per cent for homes and 20.9 per cent for small businesses. He observed that electricity emissions dropped by four per cent in 2025. He pointed out that 423,717 batteries had been fitted since 1 July, contributing 12 gigawatt hours of storage. He condemned the opposition for rejecting the Cheaper Home Batteries policy and backing the unsuccessful UNGI scheme.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister stated that the costings were commercial-in-confidence due to the auction nature of the scheme. He noted that the recent auction was expected to generate $17 billion of private capital and result in approximately 19,000 roles in the building sector. The Minister argued that keeping the costs confidential was appropriate to protect taxpayers' interests, citing the member's previous support for commercial confidentiality.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister announced price reductions in all jurisdictions, including a 10.7 per cent drop for residences in Energex and up to 20.9 per cent for small businesses in Essential Energy. He attributed these reductions to increased renewable energy penetration, battery storage displacing expensive gas and hydro generation, and reforms to the default market offer. He contrasted this with opposition policies, such as extending coal life and nuclear energy, which he argued would not help reduce prices.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister agreed that the destruction of First Nations culture was unacceptable. He stated he would discuss the matter with the Minister for Indigenous Australians and the New South Wales government and keep the member advised of progress in the investigation.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister reported that diesel holdings were at 38 days, the highest since the minimum stock obligation began in 2023, with 43 days of diesel and 31 days of jet fuel available. He stated that one billion litres of extra stock had been added in seven weeks, underwritten by Export Finance Australia. He highlighted the budget's investment in a sovereign strategic reserve, contrasting this with the previous government's reliance on reserves held in Texas. He argued that a government-owned reserve was necessary for future security.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister stated that the budget builds a sovereign fuel stock and supports households in diversifying energy choices, such as buying electric vehicles and installing home batteries. He noted that 398,123 households had installed cheaper home batteries, with 400,000 expected soon. He criticized the Opposition for opposing these measures and for suggesting they should be paused or means-tested. He highlighted high take-up rates in regional areas like Mallee, contradicting claims of low regional uptake.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister stated that the budget included a $14.8 billion package for fuel security, including a $1.1 billion fund for cleaner fuels like biofuels. He highlighted a $3.2 billion commitment for a government-owned strategic fuel reserve, which had been welcomed by rural and regional groups. The Minister criticized the opposition for opposing the government-owned reserve and noted that their proposal to increase private sector stock obligations to 60 days was mathematically incorrect, as a billion litres only equated to 37 days of supply.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister stated that Australia currently holds more fuel than on 28 February, with 42 days of petrol, 35 days of diesel, and 29 days of jet fuel. He attributed this to government-industry cooperation and diplomatic efforts with South-East Asian partners. The government had adjusted diesel standards and released strategic reserves. The budget would establish a government-owned strategic reserve of one billion litres to address regional shortages, aligning Australia with 22 of the 32 International Energy Agency governments that hold such reserves.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister stated that securing fuel supply had been the focus since 28 February. He listed actions including changing fuel quality standards, releasing 20 per cent of the strategic reserve, and changing diesel standards. He noted that legislation enabling Export Finance Australia to support fuel imports had passed both houses and would be law. He mentioned ongoing conversations with 10 companies and engagement with international partners like Singapore and Brunei to ensure fuel flows.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister confirmed the government was determined to introduce the gas reservation policy starting 1 January 2027. He noted that submissions had been received and detailed design was underway in consultation with industry and gas users. He stated that cabinet would decide the parameters based on recommendations to ensure gas under Australian soil and waters benefited heavy industry and the energy system.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister said priority would go to essential users like emergency services, utilities, and life-supporting services. He cited examples from the Liquid Fuel Emergency Act determination, including police, fire, rescue, ambulance, corrective, public transport, state emergency, and taxi services. He noted the Minister for Energy made this determination.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister provided detailed figures for each state and territory. In New South Wales, 247 stations lacked diesel and 61 had total stockouts out of 2,400. In Queensland, 77 lacked diesel and 39 lacked unleaded petrol out of 1,800. In Victoria, 82 lacked diesel and 40 lacked petrol out of 1,627. In South Australia, 20 lacked diesel and 13 lacked unleaded petrol out of 700. In Western Australia, 18 lacked diesel and 14 lacked unleaded petrol out of 771. In Tasmania, eight lacked diesel and 15 had unavailable grades out of 294. In the Northern Territory, five lacked diesel and four lacked unleaded petrol out of 180, with some shortages due to road closures. In the ACT, five lacked diesel and two lacked unleaded petrol, with shortages typically resolved within the same day.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister stated that the government had focused on ensuring energy supply since 28 February. Actions included freeing up 20 per cent of the minimum stock obligation, altering sulphur and diesel rules, and confirming that cancelled ships were replaced. He noted that over 55 ships were en route to Australia with fuel, and 3.7 billion litres were contracted for April. Legislation was introduced to allow Export Finance Australia to finance risky spot cargoes. The Minister also highlighted progress in electricity, noting that over 300,000 home batteries had been installed since 1 July, including 1,508 in Corangamite, helping to store renewable energy and reduce gas use.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister stated that over 53 ships were en route to Australia from various refineries, with 3.7 billion litres contracted for April. He acknowledged risks in the supply chain due to the Strait of Hormuz closure and highlighted government actions like releasing minimum stock obligations and introducing legislation to finance spot cargoes. He noted that Asian refineries supply both Australia and Asia, and that the government was in constant contact with international counterparts.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister clarified that over 53 ships were currently en route, with some imminent and others just leaving refineries. He stated that the historical average of 81 ships per month was expected to continue into May. He confirmed 3.7 billion litres were on the water. Regarding Middle East exports, he noted that around 46 ships had left the Middle East through the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict began, which was below pre-conflict levels. He mentioned Saudi Arabia increasing exports from Yanbu to bypass the Strait and highlighted ongoing engagement with international counterparts.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister thanked taxi operators and stated that fuel supply to Australia continued at expected rates. He acknowledged regional shortages and highlighted increased sales at terminals in Gladstone and Mackay. The release of the minimum stockholding obligation had led to increased allocations to wholesalers and regional distributors, including for mining, rail, and Indigenous communities. The Minister offered to assist specific constituents by contacting fuel companies to address shortages. He expressed appreciation for the work of taxi operators supporting elderly and disabled Australians.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister reported that Australia held 39 days' worth of petrol, 30 days of diesel, and 30 days of jet fuel. He noted that deliveries to regional Australia were 55 per cent higher than normal. To address difficulties in purchasing spot cargoes, the government announced that Export Finance Australia would finance and insure fuel imports. Legislation was introduced to allow this support for fuel and other goods like fertiliser, aiming to secure available global supplies for Australian consumers.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister stated that supply remained strong, with all six cancelled ships replaced and additional spot cargo confirmed. He noted that the two domestic refineries were operating at full capacity for Australian use. He explained that suppliers were prioritizing contract holders, leading to shortages in the spot market, but emphasized that government and industry personnel were working long hours to address regional shortages. He reported that Ampol's supplies to independent distributors in regional areas had increased significantly year-on-year, ranging from 19 per cent in Victoria to 66 per cent in South Australia.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister provided state-by-state figures for service stations without diesel or unleaded fuel, noting declines in some areas like Victoria. He stated he would continue providing updates as appropriate, similar to state premiers. He explained that data was collected primarily by states and shared regularly with the Commonwealth, and that premiers were providing daily updates.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister stated the government had been taking action since 28 February to ensure supply and distribution. He noted that international oil prices were the primary driver of petrol costs, a factor beyond government control. Regarding updates, he confirmed he had been providing daily updates in the House and pointed out that every state had apps or websites with service station information. He mentioned that a national system had been tried before and opposed by the Liberal Party.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister reiterated that Ampol's distribution to regional Queensland had increased substantially year-on-year, indicating industry efforts to catch up with demand. He stated that the government was working hard to ensure fuel access for Easter and beyond. He criticized misleading claims about fuel exports and net zero links. Regarding updates, he confirmed he would continue providing daily updates in the House and noted that state premiers and state websites were also providing useful information.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The Minister offered to take up the specific case with suppliers. He reported that Ampol's supply to regional South Australia was up 44 per cent year-on-year and provided figures for Viva, showing increases in supply to regional areas across states. He stated that combined supplies from Ampol and Viva were significantly higher than a year ago, reflecting progress in catching up with demand spikes. He praised the National Farmers' Federation for its constructive approach and emphasized the need for collaboration during this difficult international circumstance.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The minister provided a state-by-state breakdown of fuel shortages. In New South Wales, 187 stations lacked diesel and 32 had no stock, a decrease of 19 from the previous day, out of 2,417 total stations. Queensland reported 55 stations without diesel and 35 without regular unleaded. Victoria had 134 stations lacking one or more grades, down 28 from the last report. South Australia had 49 shortages out of 700 stations. Western Australia had six total stockouts and four without diesel out of 771 stations. Tasmania had one station without diesel and six without unleaded. The Northern Territory had no shortages due to fuel supply issues, though natural disaster impacts affected access. The Australian Capital Territory had one station without diesel, with rectification expected within hours.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The minister confirmed that fuel levels were accurate and that ships continued to arrive and refineries operated fully. He acknowledged real shortages in rural areas due to doubled demand but stated that using information-gathering powers would require legislation that the opposition had previously voted against. He compared this to the opposition's stance on hate speech legislation, noting they voted against it and then demanded its use.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The minister reported that 20 per cent of the minimum stock obligation had been released on the condition that it flowed to rural and regional Australia, with agreements struck with impacted companies. He stated that 757 million litres were now flowing to regional areas due to these releases. He noted that six cancelled ship arrivals in April had been replaced with alternative spot market orders, and three additional cargo deliveries had been secured for April and May. He criticized the opposition for not making constructive suggestions and for misleading statements regarding exports and Pacific leaders.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The minister said the government had freed 757 million litres from the minimum stock obligation, provided it went to designated regions. He outlined distributions for Toowoomba, the Darling Downs, the Atherton Tablelands, Mareeba, Indigenous communities, Cape York, and farming areas near Cairns and Townsville. He highlighted that priority went to key fuel stops for long-distance transport and extra bulk supplies for Queensland households. He specifically noted sending fuel to Texas, Queensland, contrasting this with the opposition's previous plans.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The minister stated that the government was coordinating action through National Cabinet and meetings with energy ministers, which was exactly what the New South Wales Premier had advocated for. He criticized the opposition for partisanship and lack of constructive suggestions, noting that the member had accurately quoted the Premier unlike a previous misrepresentation.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The minister stated that the legislation would be introduced the following day.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The minister provided figures for service stations without fuel: 164 without diesel and 289 without at least one fuel type in New South Wales; 55 without diesel and 35 without regular unleaded in Queensland; 162 with one or more grades unavailable in Victoria; 46 in South Australia; six in Western Australia; one without diesel and six without unleaded in Tasmania. He noted no shortages in the Northern Territory or ACT, though flooding affected access in the NT.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The minister stated that the government released 20 per cent of the minimum stock obligation, conditional on fuel flowing to regional areas. He also announced a temporary relaxation of sulphur rules for petrol, adding 100 million litres to the system monthly. The government was working with refiners and suppliers to ensure fuel reached areas with real shortages, denying claims that exports were being stopped.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The minister announced changes to fuel security services payments to keep two existing refineries operating. He also announced a change to diesel standards, allowing a lower flashpoint of 60.5 degrees to increase import flexibility. He reiterated that 20 per cent of the minimum stock obligation had been released to boost supply, emphasizing that these were practical measures taken in response to international uncertainty.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The minister referred to a communique from energy ministers agreeing to work together on fuel security and contingency planning. He stated that the government was working with states under the National Liquid Fuel Emergency Response Plan, which had existed for 20 years, and denied that rationing was being requested or implemented.

Answer from Chris Bowen

The minister confirmed that bunker fuel was not part of the Minimum Stockholding Obligation but stated that conditions on the release of stocks prioritized maritime oil supply for cargo and passenger vessels. He noted that fuel oil accounted for one per cent of refined product use in 2025. He stated that invoking the Liquid Fuel Emergency Act was not envisaged as the threshold for its use was high and had never been met in 40 years.