LNG facilities on Australia’s Curtis Island
Australia’s LNG flashpoint
Scapegoating foreign buyers will not solve country’s gas shortages
LNG exports have once again become a flashpoint in Australia’s national debate over gas shortages. This time, however, the focus is not on how much gas is leaving the country but on what happens to it after it does. Thinktank the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) released a research note in May alleging that Japanese firms resold around half the Australian LNG they purchased in 2024 to third countries. The report cast this as opportunistic trading amid Japan’s sustained efforts to influence Australian policy and ensure uninterrupted export flows. The media quickly amplified the implication that Japan was gaming the system. Nevertheless, that reading—while politica
Also in this section
11 February 2026
Panellists from three LNG buyers at LNG2026 in Doha outlined their evolving procurement strategies as they navigate heightened market volatility
11 February 2026
North African producer plans to boost output by early 2030, with Europe its number one priority as export destination
11 February 2026
Maritime leaders at LNG2026 warned of the dangers of over-regulation on competitiveness, sustainability and innovation
10 February 2026
The country has opened bidding on 50 blocks in a new licensing round but will face competition for attention and will need to address concerns about security and legislation
