Dutton's Gas Plan Expected to Increase Prices, Expert Warns

The Coalition's gas plan, recently detailed by opposition leader Peter Dutton, aims to reduce household gas bills by 7% and electricity prices by 3% by imposing a levy on gas exporters not tied to long-term contracts. However, experts warn that the plan could inadvertently raise local gas prices if producers opt not to produce enough gas due to the new constraints. Dutton emphasized the urgency of reversing Labor's renewable energy policies, claiming the proposal would secure additional gas supply for domestic use. Despite these claims, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticized the Coalition's plan as lacking detail and accused Dutton of misleading the public. The timing for when consumers might see these reductions remains uncertain, with Dutton suggesting improvements could begin by the end of the year. The debate between the two leaders highlighted contrasting visions for Australia’s energy future as they prepared for the upcoming election.