Australia’s federal, state, and territory resources ministers have met in Brisbane to discuss the future of gas supply and critical minerals, as the Albanese Government advances plans to strengthen the nation’s resources sector.
The meeting, held on 9 September, marked the fourth Resources Ministers’ Roundtable and was led by Federal Resources Minister Madeleine King.
According to the Australian Government, the roundtable provided an opportunity for ministers to exchange views on policies to boost productivity and to support investment in critical areas.
Minister King said the discussions reaffirmed that the development of Australia’s critical minerals industry remains a central priority under the government’s Future Made in Australia agenda.
“The resources industry is the engine room of this nation and all states and territories are determined to ensure it continues to provide for future generations of Australians,” she said.
The Albanese Government is currently consulting industry on the establishment of a Critical Minerals Strategic Reserve and is considering reforms to gas markets to ensure affordable and reliable supply for Australian households and businesses.
Minister King emphasised that governments are working together to secure supply chains and build sovereign capability in processing, refining and smelting.
“States and territories are working together to ensure the industry continues to create new jobs and wealth for all,” she said. “The roundtable was a chance to update ministers on policies and to seek input into ways governments can ensure the sector remains strong.”
The meeting was attended by Assistant Minister for Resources Senator Anthony Chisholm, Queensland Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last, South Australian Minister for Energy and Mining Tom Koutsantonis, Northern Territory Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Mining and Energy Gerard Maley, New South Wales Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos, Western Australian Minister for Mines and Petroleum David Michael, and Victorian Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio.
