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At a press club event in Canberra, Resources Minister Madeleine King told reporters that Australian industry will continue to rely on natural gas for the foreseeable future and that the national gas reservation scheme, slated to take effect in 2028, is expected to help lower power prices.

The scheme, which is part of the government's broader strategy to secure a stable energy supply for critical sectors, would allow the federal government to reserve a portion of domestic gas production for industries that have historically depended on it for manufacturing, mining and processing.

King did not disclose a specific cost for the gas reservation, leaving questions about the financial impact on both industry and consumers. Nevertheless, the minister emphasized that the arrangement would provide a buffer against volatile market prices and help keep electricity costs more predictable for businesses.

Industry analysts say that the timing of the scheme could align with upcoming infrastructure projects and a projected rise in domestic gas demand as the country moves away from coal. While the exact mechanisms of the reservation programme remain under development, stakeholders are watching closely to see how it will shape the energy landscape over the next decade.

By securing a guaranteed supply of gas, the scheme could also support the country's commitments to reducing carbon emissions, as gas is often viewed as a bridge fuel between coal and renewables. If the reservation mechanism succeeds, it may encourage further investment in gas infrastructure and provide a more stable environment for companies that rely on gas-powered processes