The Smart Energy Council warmly welcomes the return of Chris Bowen as Minister for Energy and Climate Change, alongside his Assistant Minister Josh Wilson.

We similarly celebrate the appointment of Murray Watt to the Environment and Water Ministry, a portfolio we are pleased to hear is considered as “central” by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Smart Energy Council Chief Executive John Grimes also congratulated Kate Thwaites for her appointment as Special Envoy for Climate Change, Adaptation and Resilience, particularly as it will have a key focus on ensuring Australia secures the COP31 climate conference.

“I would also like to thank outgoing Industry and Science Minister Ed Husic for his contribution to the sector, and know that support will continue through his successor Tim Ayres, who we know is a champion of Australian industry and ingenuity.”

“Minister Bowen has achieved much in the last three years as Energy Minister, retaining him will be of great comfort to the renewable energy industry,” Smart Energy Council Chief Executive John Grimes said.

“The Albanese Government has a mandate to double down on the rollout of cheap, clean and reliable power, these appointments are a good sign that we will get straight back to work.”

“Australia has made great progress decarbonising its energy and transport sectors, yet there is so much more to do, that includes a greater focus on climate and the environment.”