A survey of Queensland Renewable Energy Council (QREC) members has revealed concerns over policy stability, with a majority of industry leaders believing recent government changes have made the state less attractive for investment.
QREC Chief Executive Officer Katie-Anne Mulder said the Executive Insights survey found only 6% of respondents believed current state policies provided investment certainty, while 26% strongly disagreed, 33% disagreed, and 35% remained neutral.
“Policy stability is now viewed as the most significant risk facing Queensland’s renewable energy sector—whereas previously, it did not rank among the top five concerns,” Ms. Mulder said.
However, Queensland Treasurer and Minister for Energy David Janetzki’s commitment in State Parliament this week to develop an Energy Road Map in consultation with industry is a timely and welcome step. The Minister acknowledged that “long-term policy stability and a clearly communicated plan will ensure investor confidence in Queensland” and emphasised the role of the private sector in delivering the state’s energy future.
The survey also showed that while policy uncertainty has impacted sentiment, Queensland remains competitive. Only 22% of respondents felt the state was less attractive for investment compared to other regions, while 44% found it attractive and 35% were neutral.
“It is clear that recent policy decisions—such as the revision of the Wind Farm Code without industry input and the freezing of assessments for projects already under independent review—have driven industry uncertainty,” Ms. Mulder said.
“There is now a clear opportunity for government, industry, and stakeholders to collaborate on the Energy Road Map to ensure Queensland’s energy future is affordable, reliable, and sustainable.”
Ms. Mulder highlighted the positive engagement at the Minister’s first energy roundtable, where QREC participated in constructive discussions.
“The Minister has committed to broader consultation, which QREC welcomes,” she said.
“Queensland is a growing state. The rise of AI, the expansion of data centres, and the electrification and automation of industrial processes mean Queensland will require significantly more electricity. The renewable energy sector stands ready to meet this demand for Queensland homes and businesses.”
Ms. Mulder emphasised that building community support and maximising economic benefits through local engagement remain top industry priorities.