Russell Broadbent here, your true Independent for Monash.
Australia is richly endowed with natural resources, which should primarily benefit the Australian people. The Federal Government’s responsibility is to manage these resources wisely to provide affordable, abundant energy and create significant opportunities to strengthen our economy and improve the government’s bottom line on its budget.
Unfortunately, the government has failed in this task—particularly when it comes to gas. Reports indicate that we may soon consider importing more gas, which is absurd given that around 80% of Australian gas is either exported or used to produce gas for domestic consumption. Australia is one of the world’s top three exporters of gas, yet we still face potential shortages. If a shortage arises, it will be the result of government mismanagement, not a lack of resources.
To secure a brighter future, the government must generate revenue from Australia's resources rather than burdening its citizens. And it must maintain a steady supply of natural energy resources, to ensure cheap and reliable energy for all Australians households and particularly the businesses and jobs that go with it.
This is the kind of economic and energy justice I believe Australia deserves—one that benefits the nation, not just a few or international companies.
That's justice as I see it.
