Anthony Albanese rules out gas export tax on existing contracts and criticises ‘populist’ campaign
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has ruled out introducing a tax on existing gas export contracts in the upcoming federal budget, stating it would be unwise to risk trade partnerships during a global fuel crisis. He dismissed calls for a 25% export levy as 'populist,' emphasizing the importance of investment for both exports and domestic gas supply. Albanese defended the current petroleum resource rent tax, which his government reformed in 2023, as a balanced approach to revenue and investment. The comments were made during a speech to the Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia.
- ▪Albanese confirmed the May 2026 budget will not include a tax on existing gas export contracts.
- ▪He argued that imposing such a tax during a global fuel crisis would harm Australia’s relationships with key Asian trading partners.
- ▪The prime minister defended the existing petroleum resource rent tax, saying it supports long-term revenue and essential investment.
- ▪Albanese highlighted that without major investment, domestic gas reserves in Western Australia would not be viable.
- ▪He criticized the push for a 25% export tax as populist rhetoric from both far-left and far-right groups.
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The prime minister, Anthony Albanese, confirmed that next month’s federal budget will not include a new tax on existing gas export contracts. Photograph: Mick Tsikas/AAPView image in fullscreenThe prime minister, Anthony Albanese, confirmed that next month’s federal budget will not include a new tax on existing gas export contracts. Photograph: Mick Tsikas/AAPEnergyAnthony Albanese rules out gas export tax on existing contracts and criticises ‘populist’ campaignPrime minister says the middle of a global fuel crisis is ‘the worst possible time to jeopardise’ Australia’s partnerships with Asian trading partners Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast Dan Jervis-BardyTue 28 Apr 2026 22.00 EDTLast modified on Tue 28…
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