Credible scientific reports from the IEA and IPCC have stated that CCUS is an important part of the technology options for countries to decarbonise, particular for hard to abate sectors. So what action is Australia taking to support CCUS?

We have heard from industry that the biggest challenge to deploying CCS projects quickly is the myriad of regulatory frameworks that don't necessarily speak to each other for both on and offshore, so a taskforce is looking at this. We're driving down emissions of those emitting more than 100,000 tonnes of CO₂ per year through our safeguard reforms, incentivising industry to do more quickly which may include using CCUS technologies.

Powering the Regions Fund and the Carbon Capture Technologies Program complements the safeguard reforms, supporting the transition of hard to abate sectors. Our sectoral plans will also articulate the role of CCUS in a decarbonising economy. We are opening more offshore acreage than ever to allow exploration for suitable greenhouse gas storage sites. Offshore acreage releases will provide potential opportunities in the near to medium term for geological storage here in Australia, supporting the movement of captured CO₂ between our regional partners, helping them decarbonise too.