The Albanese government's ambiguous stance on the future of gas in Australia is not just a policy misstep—it’s a potential economic disaster waiting to unfold.

As Australian families and businesses grapple with rising costs of living, the government's refusal to definitively categorise gas as a sustainable investment in its green-rating framework further exacerbates these struggles.

This lack of clarity threatens not only our economic stability but also the affordability and reliability of our energy supply.

Gas has long been a cornerstone of Australia's energy sector.

It plays a crucial role in ensuring the stability of our energy grid, especially as we transition towards a more renewable energy future.

However, this week’s revelations indicate that Labor's proposed green-rating system for institutional investors will exclude gas as a sustainable investment.

Instead, gas is listed as a “phase down” sector in the draft sustainable finance taxonomy framework.

This classification could dissuade crucial investment in the gas sector, putting immense pressure on energy prices and, consequently, on Australian households and businesses.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s evasive responses to questions about this framework raise serious concerns.

When pressed on whether gas would be included in the final taxonomy framework, he deflected, implying a lack of awareness about the report.

Such dodging of critical questions does not inspire confidence in a government that claims to support gas as a transitional energy source.

The Albanese government’s separate Future Gas Strategy highlights the importance of gas in firming renewable energy.

Yet, this is contradicted by the exclusion of gas from the sustainable finance taxonomy.

This mixed messaging is problematic.

On one hand, the government acknowledges the essential role of gas in supporting the rollout of renewables.

On the other, it endorses a framework that sidelines gas, potentially stifling investment in this critical sector.

Without gas to firm unreliable renewables and the government's refusal to entertain nuclear energy, Australia faces a potential energy price and reliability crisis under Albanese's renewables-only policy.

Gas provides the necessary backup to ensure that when the sun isn't shining and the wind isn't blowing, our energy needs are still met.

The government's current approach, which excludes gas and ignores nuclear energy, leaves Australia vulnerable to energy shortages and price spikes.

The Coalition has rightly pointed out that this policy could lead to increased living costs.

Opposition Treasury spokesman Angus Taylor criticised the exclusion of gas from the sustainable finance taxonomy, stating it would add to the financial burdens of Australians.

The Coalition's stance underscores the need for a balanced approach that prioritises both sustainability and economic viability.

Family First believes that if reducing emissions is necessary, any transition must be a coal to gas to nuclear transition.

This approach avoids the high costs and environmental damage associated with rolling out a dispersed energy system of windmills and solar panels in far-flung areas.

A balanced and realistic energy policy should prioritise the reliability and affordability of our energy supply while addressing environmental concerns.

The current trajectory, focused solely on renewables, is unsustainable and economically damaging.

Gas is not just an energy source; it is a lifeline for many Australian families and businesses.

Its affordability and reliability are paramount, especially during this transitional phase towards renewable energy.

The Business Council of Australia has also expressed concerns, advocating for gas to be included as a “transition” asset in the draft framework.

This inclusion would align with the realities of our current energy needs and future sustainability goals.

Ignoring these recommendations and pushing forward with a framework that undermines gas investments will only deepen the economic strain on Australians.

Master Plumbers Australia & New Zealand echoed these sentiments, highlighting the government's contradictory positions on gas.

The Future Gas Strategy emphasises gas's role in energy security, yet the proposed green-ratings system contradicts this by discouraging investment.

Such inconsistencies create uncertainty, which is detrimental to both the energy sector and the broader economy.

In conclusion, the Albanese government must prioritise the economic welfare of Australian families and businesses by providing clear, consistent policies on gas.

Excluding gas from the sustainable finance taxonomy is a step in the wrong direction.

Instead, a balanced approach that recognises the transitional role of gas, as seen in the European model, should be adopted.

Ensuring the affordability and reliability of our energy supply is not just an economic necessity—it is a moral imperative.