Topic analysis

Anthony Albanese accused of ‘caving to gas companies’ as Labor set to reject new export tax

The Australian Labor government, led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, is set to reject a proposed 25% gas export tax in its upcoming 2026 budget, citing global energy supply stability and obligations to existing export contracts. Independent Senator David Pocock and Greens leader Larissa Waters have condemned the decision, accusing the government of prioritizing gas industry interests over public benefits, while Pocock argues the tax could fund recommended increases to jobseeker payments that the government has so far ignored.