New state Bill to help cut carbon emissions and safeguard natural wonders

• Provides clear approvals pathway for hydrogen and other renewable gas pipelines
• Supports up to 10,000 jobs and $33 billion in economic activity by 2040
• Global powers turning to Queensland to help slash carbon emissions

New legislation introduced in Cairns Regional Parliament today brings Queensland one step closer to safeguarding the state’s natural wonders and securing new jobs and export potential for Queensland’s booming renewable energy industry.

The Gas Supply and Other Legislation (Hydrogen Industry Development) Amendment Bill 2023 will ensure Queensland has the policy settings in place to lead energy export partners, including Japan and South Korea, on their journey to net-zero.

The Bill will mean Queensland’s construction, operation and safety management of hydrogen projects and other renewable gas pipelines are well established – turning the industry into a powerhouse of opportunity for jobs, climate, and export potential.

Green hydrogen will be a game changer in decarbonising heavy haulage, shipping, aviation and industry, and will also slash emissions, help tackle climate change and safeguard natural tourism wonders for generations to come.

Queensland is already leading the charge in the hydrogen sector, with more than 50 hydrogen projects currently underway across the state, including Stanwell Energy’s mega $12.4 billion Central Queensland Hydrogen Hub at Gladstone Port.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen, Mick de Brenni:

“Queensland is home to unrivalled natural beauty, including the Daintree and the Great Barrier Reef, and it is crucial that we lead the charge in decarbonising energy systems to ensure these wonders are around for generations to come.

“This Bill is the key to unlocking the next frontier in Queensland’s energy exports – supporting up to 10,000 jobs and $33 billion in economic activity by 2040.

“It’s crucial we get this right and ensure the proper framework is applied to the world’s climate challenges head-on, whilst ensuring investor confidence in Queensland’s hydrogen export potential."

Quotes attributable to Resources Minister, Scott Stewart:

“These reforms are one of the key actions in the Queensland Resources Industry Development Plan, a 30-year vision that will lay the foundations to responsibly unlock and realise the potential of our state’s resources into the future,” he said.

“The proposed changes to the Petroleum and Gas (Production and Safety) Act 2004 will position Queensland as a destination of choice for investors looking to be part of the green hydrogen revolution.

“North Queensland will be one of the big winners of these reforms and I’m excited about the good jobs and great opportunities that will be created in the years to come.”

Further information

• The Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan will transform the state into a renewable energy powerhouse, delivering clean, reliable and affordable power for generations.
• It will mean 70% renewable energy by 2032, and 80% by 2035, and propel the state to zero net emissions by 2050.
• The plan maps a path for 95% of infrastructure investment to be in the regions, turbo-charging industry and new opportunities and supporting 100,000 jobs across Queensland by 2040.
• State’s green hydrogen industry key element of the plan, luring major investment and opening new export opportunities.
• Queensland’s Enabling Queensland’s hydrogen production and export opportunities report identifies key regional areas which have the potential to deliver world-scale hydrogen exports.
• Government also supporting industry development through $4.5 billion Queensland Renewable Energy and Hydrogen Jobs Fund.
• The Bill will apply the existing safety frameworks for pipelines in Queensland to hydrogen and other renewable gases, including the requirement to develop safety management systems and comply with safety requirements.

ENDS

Media Contact: Elise Williams 0482 503 675