Changes to the Fair Work Act may benefit the energy and resources sector

The energy and resources sector is a significant contributor to the economy, and its impact is estimated to continue to grow over the next decade. The Australian Resources and Energy Group (AMMA) estimates that the sector will add over 24,000 new workers by 2026 to support 98 new and expansion projects worth over $83 billion. The roles available could double depending not the construction and flow-on work required.  Western Australia and Queensland are expected to benefit the most from these initiatives.

Proposed changes to offshore oil and gas decommissioning framework

In December, the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources released its consultation paper on enhancing Australia’s offshore oil and gas decommissioning framework.

ARELJ Article - Public Duties on the Disposal of Australia's Non-Renewable Resources: The Case for Regulatory Reform

ARELJ - Case Note - Yindjibarndi Case “Occupation Requirement” Authority

China’s cut to coal imports

In October, China’s coal imports dropped by 47% compared to the same period last year. This equates to almost 12 million tonnes in one month and was a result of escalating trade tensions between Australia and China. 

The states boost the energy and resources sector

This year will be remembered for the many challenges that it brought to both individuals and industry. As Australia starts to return to some normality, many states are looking to boost industry, increase jobs and innovate for the future. In this article, we look at various state initiatives designed to boost the energy and resources sector.

The low emissions technology investment roadmap

On 22 September, the Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction released the first Low Emissions Technology Statement (the Technology Statement). The document clearly shows the Government is moving away from subsidising wind and solar as the technology matures, and looks to support new and emerging technologies that will lower emissions in Australia. According to the Minister, the Technology Statement also focuses on reducing cost and creating jobs. 

Government support for a gas-led COVID-19 recovery

Prime Minister Scott Morrison recently announced a gas-led recovery to the economic recession brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. A key part of the government’s JobMaker plan, the government expects the industry to create over 4,000 jobs.

Climate change action is being driven by business and industry

While everyone’s focus in recent months has been on the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change was top of everyone’s mind when the year began with bushfires ravaging Australia. The pandemic has seen individuals and organisations assess their ideologies and perspectives on a range of topics, climate change being one of them. It now seems that climate change is back on everyone’s agenda and none more so than business and industry.

ARELJ - Recent Development - Principles for Exploration and Extraction Rights