As Australia heads toward the 2025 federal election, the Coalition has outlined an energy agenda that puts gas and nuclear squarely in focus. With global sentiment shifting back toward traditional energy, this proposed policy mix signals a decisive move to strengthen Australia’s oil and gas sector while opening the door for future nuclear power.
Gas as a Critical Mineral
One of the Coalition’s most headline-grabbing proposals is to classify natural gas as a critical mineral. This designation would allow gas producers to access funds from the $4 billion Net Zero Fund, typically earmarked for low-emissions technologies.
The aim? Encourage investment in domestic gas supply, ensure price stability and boost Australia’s competitive edge in global LNG exports.
East Coast Gas Reservation Policy
Another cornerstone of the policy is a domestic gas reservation plan for the east coast, with a target to keep consumer prices below $10 per gigajoule. While critics question the feasibility of this pricing goal, the message is clear: protect Australian households and businesses from international volatility.
Fast-Tracking Approvals
The Coalition has also promised to streamline project approvals, removing bureaucratic delays and offering more certainty to investors. This could see major upstream oil and gas projects move faster from planning to execution, particularly in basins across WA, QLD and NT.
Reopening the Nuclear Debate
In a bold shift, the Coalition has reintroduced nuclear energy into the national conversation, proposing to assess former coal-fired power sites for potential nuclear development.
While still in early stages, this signals a longer-term interest in zero-emissions baseload power that could diversify Australia’s energy mix beyond renewables.
Implications for the Energy Workforce
This agenda has major workforce implications, particularly for:
- Drillers, engineers and field technicians working on expanded gas infrastructure
- Project managers and regulatory specialists navigating accelerated approvals
- Energy professionals interested in transitioning into nuclear operations or regulatory compliance
It also reinforces career longevity for those in traditional energy, pushing back on the perception that the industry is in decline.
The Big Picture
The Coalition’s energy plan is not without its critics, but it presents a clear message: hydrocarbons remain central to Australia’s economic and energy security strategy. The reintroduction of nuclear into public discourse also reflects a willingness to look beyond conventional solutions.
Whether or not this agenda becomes policy depends on the outcome of Election 2025. But for now, it’s a strong signal to the market that gas is back in favour — and new opportunities are emerging.
At Enxgy, we’re helping clients and talent navigate this evolving energy landscape with clarity and confidence.
