LEGISLATION introduced in Cairns Regional Parliament this week aims to secure export potential for Queensland’s hydrogen industry, including a project underway at Gladstone Port.

The Gas Supply and Other Legislation (Hydrogen Industry Development) Amendment Bill 2023 intends to ensure the state’s construction, operation and safety management of hydrogen projects and other renewable gas pipelines are well established.

The state government said green hydrogen would be a “game changer” in decarbonising heavy haulage, shipping, aviation and industry.

It noted there are currently 50 hydrogen projects underway across the state, including Stanwell Energy’s $12.4-billion Central Queensland Hydrogen Hub at Gladstone Port.

The new bill aims to ensure Queensland has the policy settings in place to lead energy export partners, including Japan and South Korea, in their net-zero ambitions.

“These reforms are one of the key actions in the Queensland Resources Industry Development Plan, a 30-year vision that will lay the foundations to responsibly unlock and realise the potential of our state’s resources into the future,” resources minister Scott Stewart said.

“The proposed changes to the Petroleum and Gas (Production and Safety) Act 2004 will position Queensland as a destination of choice for investors looking to be part of the green hydrogen revolution.

“North Queensland will be one of the big winners of these reforms and I’m excited about the good jobs and great opportunities that will be created in the years to come.”

Minister for energy, renewables and hydrogen Mick de Brenni said Queensland needs to decarbonise energy systems to protect the Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef.

“This Bill is the key to unlocking the next frontier in Queensland’s energy exports – supporting up to 10,000 jobs and $33 billion in economic activity by 2040,” he said.

“It’s crucial we get this right and ensure the proper framework is applied to the world’s climate challenges head-on, whilst ensuring investor confidence in Queensland’s hydrogen export potential.”

The bill is to apply existing safety frameworks for pipelines in Queensland to hydrogen and other renewable gases, including the requirement to develop safety management systems and comply with safety requirements.

It government estimates it will support up to 10,000 jobs and $33 billion in economic activity.