A One Nation proposal to dramatically cut gas supplies in far south-west Queensland will push up electricity prices and cost jobs.
State Development Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said revelations that One Nation Party was calling for – either by mistake or political opportunism – the shutdown of a major gas region was a stunning intervention into national energy debate.
“This proposal would deny Queensland industry and Queensland jobs almost decades of gas supply,” Dr Lynham said.
“The LNP is prepared to do deals with One Nation. The LNP needs to rule out – once and for all – doing a deal with One Nation before or after the Queensland election. If not, the LNP stands for less gas, more expensive electricity and fewer jobs.
“When the rest of Australia is seeking more sources of gas, One Nation wants to cut it off. This region have been producing petroleum and gas for Australian industry for 50 years.”
“Cut off gas supply and two things will happen – electricity prices increase and Australian jobs go.
“Exploration and extraction of gas is subject to State and/or Federal environmental assessment, including impacts on groundwater.
“Queensland has done the hard work to develop our gas reserves for domestic and export markets.
“Queensland gas is helping put downward pressure on electricity prices for Australian homes and businesses.”
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