The Business Council of Australia (BCA) today supported the release of the Federal Government’s energy issues paper.

The Council made the following comments:

“The articulation of a vision for a national energy market and suitable milestones is critically important, as is the appointment of the Independent Review Panel.

“One of Australia’s core strategic advantages is its extensive energy supply and efficient production sector.

“The reforms of the 1990s remain incomplete, and driving these to a sensible and successful conclusion will bring significant benefit to Australia.

“We see the main steps as a consistent drive towards an integrated national energy market; greatly improved interconnection in electricity and gas; simplification of regulation and responsibility; and greater competition in electricity generation.

“Today’s announcement is a significant step forward in delivering on those important goals.”