The Queensland Renewable Energy Council (QREC) has welcomed the Australian Government’s 2026–27 Federal Budget measures to streamline environmental approvals, progress bilateral agreements with states and territories, and accelerate strategic planning for renewable energy development across Australia.
QREC Chief Executive Officer Katie-Anne Mulder said the Budget initiatives recognise the importance of delivering faster, clearer and more coordinated approvals processes to support new renewable energy, storage and transmission investment at a time when Queensland and the broader National Electricity Market require substantial new generation capacity.
“With our members, we have raised the need to streamline approvals, and these Budget initiatives are a welcome commitment. Our comments were reflected in the Australian Productivity Commission’s report late last year, and it is encouraging to see a positive response in the Budget,” she said.
“As the Australian Energy Regulator and Queensland Competition Authority have recently reported, renewable energy is helping to put downward pressure on electricity prices for Queensland homes and businesses.”
“Faster and more coordinated approvals processes will help maintain investment momentum, support regional jobs and supply chains, and assist in delivering affordable, reliable and sustainable electricity for Queensland households and businesses.”
Specifically, QREC welcomed the Australian Government’s commitment of $47.6 million over four years to progress bilateral agreements with states and territories, enabling states to undertake environmental assessments on behalf of the Commonwealth and reducing duplication in approvals processes.
QREC also welcomed the allocation of $26.4 million over four years for the development of new bioregional plans and strategic assessments in priority areas, including renewable energy. It noted that clearer upfront planning and cumulative impact assessment frameworks could provide greater certainty for communities, landholders, investors, and project proponents.
Ms Mulder said effective collaboration between the Australian Government, Queensland Government, industry, communities, and other stakeholders would remain essential to ensuring reforms deliver practical improvements in project assessment timeframes while maintaining confidence in environmental protections.