Environmental Concerns Highlighted Amid Talks
On April 29, 2026, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is scheduled to meet with Western Australia’s gas and mining lobby in Perth. Greenpeace is urging him to resist pressure to scrap a proposed gas tax, a move seen as crucial for environmental sustainability.
The Chamber of Minerals and Energy WA (CMEWA) and corporations like Woodside and Chevron are actively lobbying against the tax on gas exports. They seek to persuade both state and federal leaders to dismiss the tax proposal.
Springmount Advisory’s analysis indicates that gas royalties to the WA state budget are projected to decrease drastically by 2029, falling from $1.37 billion to $167 million. This potential drop poses a significant challenge to the state’s economic stability.
Implementing a significant tax on gas exports could unlock substantial public revenue for Western Australia. This revenue could provide cost-of-living relief, fund public services such as education and healthcare, and accelerate WA’s transition to renewable energy sources.
Greenpeace’s Position on Gas Exports
David Ritter, CEO of Greenpeace Australia Pacific, argues that the federal government should act promptly to benefit Australians. He emphasises that redistributing profits from gas corporations through taxation could help alleviate rising living costs.
Ritter expressed his concerns, stating, “As a West Australian, I am appalled by the profits that the big gas corporations have been hauling in, at the expense of our magnificent environment and with so little return to the community.”
Highlighting the current fossil fuel crisis, he notes that the dangers of relying on oil and gas are evident. However, this moment presents a potential turning point for WA and Australia.
Greenpeace believes that implementing the tax could help transition WA’s economy away from fossil fuels. This could foster growth in the renewable energy sector and secure a sustainable economic future for the state.
Roger Cook and Anthony Albanese, if committed to securing the best deal for West Australians, should prioritise taxing gas exports appropriately. It is crucial to secure a fair share of revenue from these industries to support the transition towards clean industries that will create jobs and strengthen communities.
Last updated: 29 April 2026, 11:34 am
