Renewables push: Industry and states have welcomed the Albanese government’s plan to jump-start stalled renewables investment, expanding a capacity investment scheme aimed at batteries and other storage from 6GW to 32GW, with 23GW for new wind/solar and 9GW for storage, using semi-regular tenders and strike prices that could shift risk between investors and taxpayers. Gas policy fight: One Nation is backing a “Norway-style” gas approach, proposing a 30% rebate on oil and gas exploration in commonwealth waters in exchange for up to 30% equity—while critics argue it’s really about protecting industry rather than raising taxes on profits. Beetaloo gas timeline: Santos says it could start new gas drilling in the Beetaloo basin within weeks after NT approval for up to 12 appraisal wells, as environment groups urge the federal environment minister to intervene over water and threatened-species impacts. LNG labour disruption: Australian unions have declared protected industrial action at Inpex LNG facilities, raising supply concerns for Ichthys. Grid storage momentum: A major milestone for batteries is underway, with AEMO and Transgrid approving Australia’s first 8-hour BESS for full operations in NSW. Climate risk backdrop: The UN weather agency warns El Niño is likely to continue until November, with a moderate-to-strong event raising the odds of drought, heavy rain and heatwaves—adding pressure to Australia’s energy reliability planning.