Proposal Seeks to Address Economic Inequities
SYDNEY — The Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS) has called on federal parliamentarians to unite in implementing a 25% gas export levy, as confirmed this week. The announcement follows support from Andrew Hastie MP, highlighting a growing consensus on the need for this reform.
ACOSS CEO Dr Cassandra Goldie emphasised the dire circumstances faced by Australians on low and moderate incomes due to rising costs and economic instability. According to Dr Goldie, multinational gas companies are profiting significantly while contributing little in taxes compared to other nations.
Impact of the Proposed Levy
Dr Goldie pointed out that a 25% levy on gas exports could generate up to $17 billion annually. This revenue could support energy affordability, renewables, income support, and essential services. The call for the levy comes amid comparisons to Qatar’s tax revenues from similar LNG export volumes.
The discussion on the gas export levy arises amidst increasing scrutiny on energy companies’ profits, especially during times of global conflict. ACOSS’s proposal aims to ensure that gas companies contribute fairly to Australian society.
ACOSS has received backing from various community groups and economic experts who argue that the proposed levy is a necessary step towards sustainable economic reform. They assert that such measures will help secure Australia’s future by providing stable funding for critical social programmes and infrastructure projects.
Source: newshub.medianet.com.au
Last updated: 4 April 2026, 6:39 pm
