Letter from Australia: Gas-fired recovery hits turbulence
The Australian government’s vision is at risk of unravelling under intense scrutiny
The administration of Australian prime minister Scott Morrison unveiled its ‘gas-led’ recovery plan as recently as May, but it is already under withering and effective fire—from both some expected and some less-familiar foes. Australian energy minister Angus Taylor has called for greater gas production that is ringfenced for the local market, as well as increased consumption of the fuel within the power sector. At first glance, this sounds exactly the direction the country should be taking, given it is forecast to see a gas supply shortfall within the next five years. But there is a catch. The minister’s plan, it seems, has not only infuriated the environmental lobby, but also upset the upst
Also in this section
12 February 2026
Europe’s focus has shifted from pipeline dependence to price discipline, with the newfound flexibility and greater security coming at a higher cost, panellists said at LNG2026
12 February 2026
Oil and gas major unconcerned by potential supply glut as it bets on growing demand in transport and other sectors, and on the fuel’s long-term role as a ‘stabilising force’ for future energy systems
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
