Jonathon Duniam (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Forestry and Fisheries) Share this | Hansard source

Australia's competitive advantage has always been based on cheap energy, and our comprehensive plan places gas at the centre of our recovery. Gas is a critical enabler and it supports our manufacturing sector, which employs over 850,000 Australians. It's an essential input in the production of plastics for PPE and fertiliser for food production. Gas provides the firmed electricity generation we need to balance the record levels of solar and wind. It provides flexible, reliable and affordable generation. Far from competing with renewables, it complements them. Through our 2020 budget, we will ensure Australian gas is working for all Australians.