AFGC welcomes Domestic Gas Reservation Bill

On 14 October 2026, the Albanese government introduced the Domestic Gas Reservation Bill 2026 into Parliament.

By reserving gas for Australian industry and households, the bill is designed to put downward pressure on gas prices while also ensuring sufficient supplies of gas are available to support Australia’s energy transition.

The Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC) has welcomed the introduction of the bill, saying greater access to affordable and reliable Australian gas is critical to the future competitiveness of food and grocery manufacturing.

AFGC CEO Colm Maguire said the legislation was an important opportunity to address a significant cost pressure facing Australian manufacturers.

“Australian manufacturers should be able to access Australian gas at internationally competitive prices,” Maguire said.

“Getting the implementation right will therefore be critical. The scheme needs to provide certainty for gas users and ensure manufacturers can secure competitive long-term contracts.”

The national reservation will replace multiple Commonwealth interventions in the gas market with an integrated rules-based framework that supports investment in production and long-term contracting between gas producers and energy users.

Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Tim Ayres said: “Australian industry needs reliable gas supply and greater certainty for the future.

“This legislation is about securing Australian gas for Australian industry, driving down prices to build a more resilient manufacturing sector.”

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