The NGIP, which sets out a long-term development pathway that locks in supply for households and manufacturers, aims to secure Australia’s gas supplies for the next 20 years.
The plan also sets out five priority actions for infrastructure and gas supply for the east coast until 2040.
The priorities in the NGIP will be implemented by the government through the Investment Framework, which sets out the principles for potential Government support.
The NGIP found several key findings, such as that to meet projected east coast gas demand, at least one new basin needs to be brought online before 2030.
Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor said the priority actions in the NGIP ensures reliable and affordable gas.
“The Morrison Government is serious about gas and acknowledges the important role it plays supporting jobs, food-production, manufacturing, industry, exports and energy supply,” Taylor said.
“This will ensure our domestic gas prices remain internationally competitive.”
Taylor said the recent price increases and gas shortages in the United Kingdom and Europe should not happen in Australia.
“The Government cannot sit back and allow that to happen here,” he said.
“The National Gas Infrastructure Plan supports a strategic approach to gas infrastructure investment over the next 20 years and aims to guide industry to priority areas that need to be addressed to avoid a supply shortfall.
The NGIP will also contribute to the creation of jobs, Taylor added.
“Unlocking basins and getting gas to where it is needed will support our job-creating industries,” he said.
“Our focus on gas and energy security has helped to grow our manufacturing sector, which is now at more than 1 million jobs – levels not seen since 2009.”
The Australian Pipelines and Gas Association (APGA) has welcomed the release of the NGIP and Investment Framework, saying the plan is vital to future prosperity.
The Government has been developing an ongoing series of NGIPs, with the next report to be delivered in late 2022.