Josh Frydenberg has been named as the Minister for the Environment and Energy while Senator Matt Canavan picks up the Resources and Northern Australia portfolio.
The Australian Pipelines and Gas Association (APGA) has welcomed the announcement that Energy will become part of the Environment portfolio.
“This is a welcome move and we are also pleased that Minister Josh Frydenberg will take on this responsibility as it provides continuity for the energy – and gas – sector,”? said APGA Chief Executive Cheryl Cartwright.
“We congratulate Mr Frydenberg on his new role and we look forward to continuing to work with him.
“We are sure he will find that this is an appropriate change; Energy belongs in the Environment portfolio.”?
Meanwhile, the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association (APPEA) has also welcomed the move.
“The holy grail of policy is integrated environment and energy policies, which can deliver lower emissions and affordable energy security,”? said APPEA Chief Executive Dr Malcolm Roberts.
“Combining environment and energy into a single portfolio is a bold move that should be supported by everyone seeking sound long-term policy.
“Mr Frydenberg’s understanding of resources and energy issues will be an asset.
“Governments have the responsibility of balancing competing priorities to deliver good policy – the Minister understands the policy choices Australia faces as we make the transition to a lower emissions future.”?
Dr Roberts also congratulated Senator Canavan on his appointment as Minister for Resources and Northern Australia.
“Senator Canavan will bring energy and intellect to his new role,”? said Dr Roberts.
“As Senator representing Queensland, the Minister knows firsthand the vital contribution the resources sector makes to regional communities.
“The industry looks forward to working with Minister Canavan.”?
Ms Cartwright says that the crucial role that gas will play in Australia’s energy landscape for years to come will hopefully be realised and implemented.
“Australia will be part of the international move towards increasing renewable energy, but this cannot be achieved without a reliable source of energy for peak periods and to meet the energy demand that can’t be met by renewable energy,”? said Ms Cartwright.
“Electricity generated by natural gas has less than half the emissions of electricity generated by coal.
“Natural gas is a critical input in manufacturing and will also continue to be an important part of our energy future. In fact, natural gas already provides more energy to the Australian industry than any other fuel source, and at lower cost.
“This change will provide the gas industry with an opportunity to further highlight the value of natural gas to the economy and to the carbon constrained future.”?