Sector updates

Headlines from current industry news. Legal analysis, project milestones, and regulatory changes involving property projects throughout Australia.

September 2026

Safeguard Mechanism Review

The consultation phase for the Federal Government's safeguard review lately closed. Critics argue the safeguard mechanisms have failed as caps are too high and carbon prices too low to incentivise shifts in behaviour from large carbon emitters.

September 2026

National AI Office releases consultation paper

The consultation paper includes questions on:
• making a positive contribution to Australia's energy transition
• imposing no net costs on consumers and communities
• solutions to minimise water use
• meaningful engagement with local communities and councils

SEPTEMBER 2026

80% Milestone

Renewable energy as a share of total demand reached 80.5 per cent at 12.25 pm on 19 September. Critics noted this was only for a short period. Nevertheless, the milestone remains vital - new milestones establish new norms. The transition in the energy mix is now irreversible.